Pleomorphic adenoma of the parapharyngeal space

Abstract

Pleomorphic adenoma of the parapharyngeal space is a rare benign tumor, representing less than 1% of tumors of the parapharyngeal space. Considering the volume of the tumor, the complexity of the space and the potential difficulties of excision, an imaging work-up including at least computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and possibly analysis of the vascular axes (angio-MRI, arteriography) is essential. Treatment of these tumors is essentially surgical. We report a case of pleomorphic adenoma of the parapharyngeal space in a 38-year-old woman.

Keywords

• Pleomorphic adenoma
• Parapharyngeal space
• CT scan
• MRI