An unusual clinico-radiological presentation of epithelioid haemangioma as an external ear mass

Abstract

Background: Epithelioid haemangiomas are rare, benign, red-brown lesions of uncertain pathogenesis, mostly arising in the head and neck. Case reports in the literature demonstrate considerable variability in their clinical appearance, and rarely describe any associated lymphadenopathy. Case report: We report a case of a 26-year-old female who presented with a mass in the right external auditory meatus (EAM), causing progressive occlusion and conductive hearing loss. Imaging demonstrated an enhancing EAM mass with ipsilateral lymphadenopathy. The lesion was surgically excised, restoring the patient's hearing, and the final diagnosis was made on histopathology. Conclusion: This case portrays the variable clinical presentation and heterogenous macroscopic appearances of epithelioid haemangiomas, which clinicians should consider when diagnosing EAM lesions, along with radiological and histopathological features. Epithelioid haemangiomas often recur, warranting regular post-operative follow-up.

Keywords

• Angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia
• Soft tissue mass
• Ear canal
• Hearing loss
• Lymphadenopathy