JAPANESE JOURNAL OF ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

Vol. 55 No. 2       2009

ISSN: 0021-5163      UBIC: 151-J

ABSTRACT

Amyloidosis is caused by amyloid substance deposition in various organs and tissues of the body. A case of systemic amyloidosis with swelling in the tongue and submandibular region as an initial symptom is reported. A 63-year-old man presented with swelling of the tongue and submandibular region. Detailed clinical examinations and biopsy were performed. There were no signs suggesting a malignant tumor. Subsequently, purpura of the lips and induration of the lower lip and buccal mucosa appeared. Chest radiographic examination revealed cardiac hypertrophy and pleural fluid. Systemic amyloidosis was suspected. A biopsy specimen taken from the buccal mucosa revealed deposition of amyloid. Congo-red stain for amyloid was positive. Systemic amyloidosis was diagnosed. The patient was followed up in the department of internal medicine. After 14 months, the patient died of cardiac failure due to amyloid deposition. Keywords: systemic amyloidosis, macroglossia, submandibular swelling, dyspnea.

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