Pleomorphic Adenoma of Parapharyngeal Space: A diagnosis on Intraoral Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology with Review of Literature

Abstract

Parapharyngeal space (PPS) neoplasms are relatively rare. Pleomorphic adenoma in the PPS can arise from the deep lobe of the parotid, however those arising de novo are extremely rare. Diagnosis and management of PPS lesions can be difficult due to the anatomic complexity of the space. A 47-year-old female came with swelling in the form of a bulge in the oral cavity on the right submandibular region. An intraoral fine needle aspiration cytology done from the mass revealed features of a benign salivary gland lesion, favouring Pleomorphic adenoma, which was confirmed on histopathology. Pleomorphic adenoma of PPS are rare tumors. FNAC along with careful clinical examination and radiological correlation can prove to be an imperative tool in diagnosis of PPS tumors and can aid in the appropriate management of these tumors. Keywords: Parapharyngeal space, Pleomorphic adenoma, Cytology, Salivary glands, Neoplasms