Discovering an uncommon site of angioleiomyoma origin: a rare case report.

BACKGROUND

Angioleiomyoma, a benign tumour of the smooth muscles of blood vessels, primarily affects individuals aged 30-50 years, with a higher incidence in females. While it commonly affects the lower extremities, it can also develop in the head and neck. However, hypopharyngeal angioleiomyomas are extremely rare, with only one documented case in world literature.

METHODS

The authors present a rare case of a 70-year-old male with symptoms of voice change and deglutition discomfort. Imaging studies indicated a hypopharyngeal mass. Direct laryngoscopy showed a well-defined mass originating from the left lateral pharyngeal wall, obstructing the left vallecula and pyriform sinus. The patient underwent anterolateral pharyngotomy with mass excision.

RESULTS

After a successful anterolateral pharyngotomy, the patient experienced significant improvement in symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Diagnosing and managing hypopharyngeal angioleiomyoma is challenging due to its unusual location. Its rarity emphasizes the importance of considering it as a possible differential when evaluating hypopharyngeal masses.