Purpose: This study evaluated the demographics, treatment outcomes, histology, and basement lamina characteristics of a large series of lymphangiomas.
Material and methods: Forty-seven lymphangiomas of the oral cavity were evaluated microscopically and representative specimens were also evaluated immunohistochemically (IMH) and by electron microscopy (EM).
Results: Patient's ages ranged from 2 to 84 years. The dorsal surface of the tongue was the most common site. Discontinuities in the basement membrane were detected with IMH and EM.
Conclusion: The discontinuous basement membrane may explain why sclerosing agents have not been effective as a form of treatment for lymphangioma.