MRI findings of necrotizing sialometaplasia

Abstract

Necrotizing sialometaplasia (NS) is a benign self-limiting inflammatory disease of mucus-secreting glands, mainly involving the minor salivary glands. This lesion can mimic a malignant neoplasm, as more frequently it manifests as a submucosal swelling or as an ulcer of the palate. Awareness of the disease is crucial to avoid undue surgical treatment. We herewith report MR findings in a histologically proven case of NS.