Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma of Palate Treated with Temporalis Muscle Flap Reconstruction

Abstract

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma is a malignant salivary gland tumor that develops from the multipotent cells, structural units, of the excretory canal. Generally observed in parotid gland, followed by minor salivary glands. Histologically, it can be categorized into low, intermediate, and high grades and is made up of mucus, squamous, and intermediate cell types. We present a case of Mucoepidermoid carcinoma in in the left posterior area of the palate in an 18-year-old male reported to department of Maxillofacial, The National Cancer Institute, Misrata, Libya. The lesion treated by wide local excision with adjacent free margins and left subtotal maxillectomy followed by reconstruction with temporalis myofascial flap. Prophylactic neck dissection at level I-III was done. The objective of this case report is to present the clinical manifestation, diagnosis, and proposed treatment plan of mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the palate. This case report emphasizes the significance of an accurate diagnosis and treatment strategy when dealing with malignant tumors because failure to do so can result in morbidity and fatality. The severity and aggressiveness of the lesion determine how mucoepidermoid carcinoma should be treated.