gamma-linolenic-acid and Mucocele

Multiple mucoceles of the minor salivary glands are rare in the mouth. Typically, the minor salivary glands of the soft palate are affected. We report two cases that responded entirely following systemic therapy with evening primrose oil. No recurrence was reported over a two-year follow-up period. Evening primrose oil is postulated to have an effect on the composition and/or viscosity of minor salivary gland secretions.

Topics: gamma-Linolenic Acid; Humans; Linoleic Acids; Mucocele; Oenothera biennis; Plant Oils

Multiple mucoceles are an extremely rare condition in the oral cavity. We report a case which responded entirely to systemic gamma-linolenic acid but which recurred several months following discontinuation of therapy. Spontaneous resolution of the condition seems unlikely and it would appear that gamma-linolenic acid could have an effect on minor salivary gland composition and/or viscosity and may be worth prescribing on a trial basis prior to surgical treatment of this rare condition.

Topics: Aged; Female; gamma-Linolenic Acid; Humans; Mucocele; Recurrence; Salivary Gland Diseases; Salivary Glands, Minor