Pleomorphic adenoma of minor salivary gland in the parapharyngeal space

World J Surg Oncol. 2003 Feb 25;1(1):2. doi: 10.1186/1477-7819-1-2.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Majority of tumours occurring in minor salivary gland are malignant. Pleomorphic adenoma is of rare occurrence in parapharangeal space. CASE PRESENTATION: A rare case of a minor salivary gland pleomorphic adenoma of the parapharyngeal space is reported. Review of literature, clinical features, pathology, radiological findings and treatment of these tumours are discussed. CONCLUSIONS: Parapharangeal salivary tumours presents as a painless progressive swelling with majority of these being malignant. Pleomorphic adenoma in parapharangeal space is of rare occurrence. Complete surgical excision is the treatment of choice.