Lymphangioma of the Palatine Tonsil

Lymphangioma of the palatine tonsil is a rare, benign lesion that presents as a tonsillar outgrowth and causes symptoms related to irritation and airway obstruction. Histologically, the mass has abundant dilated lymphatic channels amid a fibrous stroma with lymphoid and adipose elements. There are several theories regarding the pathogenesis of these lesions, and the appropriate diagnostic classification is controversial. Because a lymphangioma may resemble a true neoplasm of the palatine tonsil clinically, the lesion must be removed for accurate histologic diagnosis and to rule out malignancy. Lymphangioma of the palatine tonsil is treated with surgical excision and has no recurrence once completely resected.