Nasopharyngeal Pleomorphic Adenoma: A Difficult Surgical Proposition

Abstract

Salivary gland tumours of the nasopharynx are rare and when present, tend to be malignant. Here, we report an unusual case of benign pleomorphic adenoma of the minor salivary gland arising from the nasopharynx in a 21-year-old female who presented with unilateral nasal obstruction. The radiological features of non-invasion of surrounding structures gave the first clue of benignity of the lesion as well as the location, size and anatomical relations of the tumour with the surrounding structures. This information was useful in planning the surgical approach and predicting the prognosis. Local and adequate excision appeared to be adequate.

Keywords

• benign mixed tumour
• minor salivary glands
• nasopharynx