Diagnosis of gastric mucosal choristoma of the tongue: A case report

Gastric mucosal choristoma of the tongue is an extremely rare benign tumor characterized by ectopic gastric mucosa in the tongue. Since first reported in 1927, only around 100 cases have been documented. Herein, we investigated an adult case of Gastric mucosal choristoma who was referred to an ENT clinic with a chief complaint of a solid tumor at the posterior portion of the tongue. A 32-year-old female presented with a posterior tongue mass initially noticed years ago that progressed over months. A surgical excision was performed. Microscopic examination revealed a gastric mucosal choristoma, with glandular structures resembling gastric mucosa. The postoperative course was uneventful. Lingual gastric choristoma is uncommon but deserves mention due to its rarity. The pathogenesis is unknown but likely represents developmental heterotopia. Clinically, lesions present as asymptomatic tongue nodules often mistaken for more common entities. Thus, histopathology is essential for diagnosis. Microscopy shows gastric mucosa with fundic glands, parietal cells, chief cells, and foveolar epithelium in tongue squamous epithelium. Gastric choristoma should be considered when evaluating tongue nodules to guide management. Increased awareness of this rare entity can enable accurate diagnosis and treatment. Complete surgical excision is curative with an excellent long-term prognosis. Further study of pathogenesis can elucidate optimal management.