Management of HIV-Related Ranula Via OK-432 Sclerotherapy
Ranula is a pathology of mouth that presents as saliva filled cyst at the floor of the mouth secondary to blockage of salivary glands. Among various pathologies of head and neck like xerostomia and benign lymphoepithelial cysts in HIV patients, ranula is a common occurrence in the HIV-infected population. An oral ranula typically resolves spontaneously in 6 to 8 weeks. If not resolved, surgery is usually planned for its removal. OK-432 sclerotherapy may also prove beneficial in such cases. OK-432 is a lyophilic mixture of streptococcus pyogenes, which has antineoplastic properties. It is given as an intralesional injection and is an extremely efficacious treatment modality in head and neck pathologies. streptococcus A journal reported a case where 43 years old, HIV positive gentleman, presented with swelling at the floor of the mouth. Medical imaging revealed well-defined lesion at the floor of the mouth, indicative of ranula. OK-432 was chosen as a treatment option die to its minimal invasive technique that ensures safety of the medical personnel treating him. After the aspiration from ranula, which revealed blood-stained mucus, OK-432 solution was then administered intralesional. Patient developed mild complications such as tenderness and inflammation at the site of ranula, and fever; however, these complications resolved spontaneously. Sclerotherapy was repeated again after 3 months. The lesion was resolved completely after 6 months of initiation of treatment. This case report suggests use of OK-432 sclerotherapy as a management option for ranula in HIV-positive patients. Source Treatment of oral ranula in HIV-positive patient https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0385814620300407 Image via https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0385814620300407
