Necrotizing sialometaplasia after bronchoscopy.

Since the introduction of necrotizing sialometaplasia into the literature as a distinct pathologic entity in 1975, there have been several reports containing microscopic findings consistent with the disease primarily of the hard palate, but also of the soft palate, major salivary glands, retromolar pad of the mandible, and mucous glands of the nasal cavity. Localized ischemia appears to be a common link. All reported lesions heal with or without surgical intervention. Generous incisional biopsy specimens should be taken and aggressive surgery should be avoided.