Unexpected Palatal Lesion: Pistachio Shell Mimicking a Palatal Tumor

Abstract

A 17-month-old child presented with a suspected nodule on the hard palate, initially diagnosed as a possible teratoma or adenoma. MRI showed a mucosal mass limited to the submucosa, leading to an excisional biopsy under general anesthesia. The lesion was ultimately identified as a pistachio shell, emphasizing the challenge of diagnosing foreign bodies in atypical locations. This case highlights the need for vigilance among clinicians in identifying uncommon presentations of foreign body ingestion.