Lymphoepithelial cyst with crystalloid formation: Cytologic features of two cases

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The presence of amylase crystalloids (AC) in cystic lesions of the parotid gland is a rare occurrence and has been diagnosed to date as sialoadenitis. We report the first two cases of parotid lymphoepithelial cyst (LC) containing this type of crystalloid. CASES: Case 1, a 56-year old male, presented with a 3 cm parotid cyst. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) was performed on the mass. Smears showed numerous crystalloids identical to those described as crystallized amylase. Case 2, a 36-year-old female, had a 2-cm parotid mass. FNA smears exhibited the same features as did case 1. The two patients were treated with superficial parotidectomy, and an LC containing AC was diagnosed in both cases. CONCLUSION: When the above findings are present on FNA of a parotid gland, the diagnosis of LC must be considered.