Oral manifestations of extranodal lymphomas - a review of the literature with emphasis on clinical implications for the practicing dentist

Objective Lymphoma is a heterogenous group of malignant tumours with proliferation of lymphoid cells or their precursors. Lymphomas in the head and neck region are usually found in Waldeyer's ring. Intraoral lymphomas are rare and the clinical presentation and roentgenological appearance may resemble other and benign conditions, entailing a risk for diagnostic delay. The objective of the present literature review was to identify subjective symptoms, clinical presentations and roentgenological appearances which should raise suspicion of lymphoma. Materials and methods The literature review identified 41 case series with head and neck lymphomas (n = 3880) and 384 case reports (n = 567 cases) of intraoral lymphomas. Information of demographics, clinical presentation, subjective symptoms and roentgenological appearance was registered. Results The most common clinical presentation was a broad-based swelling or bulging mass with or without simultaneous ulceration, frequently with a relatively rapid growth pattern. Subjective symptoms varied considerably. Intraosseous lymphomas were frequently associated with paresthaesia or numbness. The most common roentgenological finding was a radiolucency with diffuse demarcation. Conclusions The clinical presentation, symptomatology and roentgenological appearance of intraoral lymphomas varied. Diagnostic delay was usually associated with a lymphoma initially misdiagnosed as a lesion of dental aetiology or a reactive lesion. Inadequate healing after tooth extraction or symptoms of numbness or pain without obvious dental origin should merit further clinical and roentgenological examination. Biopsy is indicated when there is the slightest doubt of the true nature of mucosal lesion.