Nasopharyngeal pleomorphic adenoma in the adult.

INTRODUCTION

Salivary gland tumors account for less than 5% of all neoplasms in the head and neck, with pleomorphic adenoma being the most common type. These typically arise in the palate, but we report a rare case of nasopharyngeal pleomorphic adenoma in an adult.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors conducted a case report and literature review.

RESULTS

The patient presented with unilateral otalgia, tinnitus, and aural fullness. Nasal endoscopy revealed a pedunculated mass adjacent to the left torus tubarius and he was treated with an excisional biopsy. Histologic evaluation demonstrated pleomorphic adenoma.

DISCUSSION

Pleomorphic adenomas seldom present as nasopharyngeal masses and have a nonspecific appearance on endoscopy. Microscopic examination has characteristic features to aid in an accurate diagnosis. Treatment is surgical and recurrence is unlikely.