Ranula-CT images

CT shows relatively sharply demarcated, unilocular , homogenous , low attenuation (fluid filled), peripherally enhancing ,cyst in the floor of the mouth pushing the mylohyoid down and shows enlarged ipsilateral submandibular salivary gland with prominent whartons duct most probably represents  oral ranula  

Case by - Dr Sudheer and Dr MGK Murthy,  Consultant Radiologist

 Definition : Term Rana(for Ranula) from latin means  Frog

Collectively, the mucocele, the oral ranula, and the cervical, or plunging, ranula are clinical terms for a pseudocyst that is associated with mucus extravasation into the surrounding soft tissues. These lesions occur as the result of trauma or obstruction to the salivary gland excretory duct and spillage of mucin into the surrounding soft tissues. Mucoceles, which are of minor salivary gland origin, are also referred to as mucus retention phenomenon and mucus escape reaction usually occur in the floor of the mouth and  involve the major salivary glands.

Specifically, the ranula originates in the body of the sublingual gland, in the ducts of Rivini of the sublingual gland, in the Wharton duct of the submandibular gland, and, infrequently from the minor salivary glands at this location. Oral ranulas are secondary to mucus extravasation that pools superior to the mylohyoid muscle, whereas cervical ranulas are associated with mucus extravasation along the fascial planes of the neck.