Median palatine cyst: an unusual presentation of a rare entity

Median palatine cyst is rare. Mostly, it is asymptomatic and usually is dis covered incidentally during routine dental or radiological examination. The case that we report has the following unusual features: Firstly, it is the largest cyst to be reported, measuring 5 cm in diameter. Secondly, there w as no swelling on the oral surface of the hard palate contrary to other rep orts. Rather, it caused elevation of the nasal floor and nasal obstruction. Thirdly, it pushed the inferior and caudal end of the septum into the left nasal chamber. The median palatine cyst was surgically removed by a sublab ial degloving approach. The cyst was removed in toto and the palatal bone c uretted to ensure adequate removal of any nesting cells that could lead to recurrence in the future. (C) 2001 The British Association of Oral and Maxi llofacial Surgeons