Primary pleomorphic adenoma of minor salivary gland in the parapharyngeal space

Abstract

Background: World literature suggests parapharyngeal space lesions account for only 0.5% head and neck tumours and the majority of the minor salivary gland tumours are malignant. The parapharyngeal space is very rare site for this tumour. Case presentation: Two cases of primary pleomorphic adenomas arising de novo from minor salivary glands in the para pharyngeal space are reported. Review of literature, clinical features, pathology, radiological findings and treatment of these tumours are discussed. Conclusion: Pleomorphic adenoma arising de novo in the parapharyngeal space is of rare occurrence. High index of suspicion and an adequate clearance of the tumour with a cuff of surrounding dispensable normal tissues is the key to successful treatment of such tumours. © 2009 Hakeem et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.