Isolated hypopharynx lipoma: a case presentation and literature review

Abstract

Background: Lipomas are the most common benign mesenchymal tumors. They are defined as subcutaneous neoplasms of mature adipocyte cells that can occur wherever fatty tissue is. Lipomas are rare in the upper aerodigestive tract. Usually asymptomatic, they may be painful, uncomfortable, or even life-threatening especially if voluminous and located in the upper aerodigestive tract. Case presentation: A 67-year-old female patient has presented with dyspnea on mild effort and chronic orthopnea. The physical examination was normal while the fiber optic endoscopy revealed a submucosal round-shaped mass rising from the left side of the post-cricoid region. CT scan revealed a well-circumscribed fatty mass of the left piriform sinus for which the patient underwent an endoscopic transoral approach for a complete removal with good results. Discussion and conclusion: Pharyngeal lipomas are rare entities that might be life-threatening. Although clinical manifestations are not specific, imaging techniques, especially MRI, help set the diagnosis showing a fatty mass of the upper aerodigestive tract. However, pathology examination is crucial to rule out low-grade liposarcomas. Surgical management is not well-codified and has benefited from the development of endoscopic techniques.