Fibro-osseous lesion of the middle turbinate: ossifying fibroma or fibrous dysplasia?

Benign fibro-osseous tumours of the head and neck region seldom appear in the midface and nasal cavity. Correct differential diagnosis of fibro-osseous tumours is crucial for adequate therapy, as their clinical aggressiveness seems to differ. The rather uncommon case of a 14-year-old boy with a tumour of the middle turbinate is presented. The radiologic appearance of the tumour, on computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans, was consistent with fibrous dysplasia. Angiography revealed extensive vascularisation of the tumour from both the internal and external carotid arteries. To avoid ipsilateral blindness following embolisation, a superselective embolisation of the supplying blood vessels was performed. The tumour was completely resected via an endoscopic approach. Histopathology revealed an ossifying fibroma. This case emphasises the importance of interpretation of the clinical, radiological and histological features before planning definitive treatment. Moreover, when fibro-osseous tumours are suspected, the possibility of extensive, complicated vascularisation must be considered. This case underwent radical resection, with no recurrence after four years' follow up.