Benign Lymphoepithelial Cyst of the Parotid Gland as an Initial Manifestation of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection / 대한내과학회지

ABSTRACT

Benign lymphoepithelial cysts are rare, and are associated with swelling of the salivary glands (usually the parotid gland). The cytopathological features include lymphoid hyperplasia with an epithelial component, exhibiting cystic and proliferative changes. Development of a benign lymphoepithelial cyst commonly precedes acquisition of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, but may also be the initial clinical manifestation of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. A 43 year-old male presented with a slowly growing multilocular cystic mass in his right cheek. Computed tomography of the neck revealed a well-circumscribed cystic lesion in the bilateral parotid glands. A provisional diagnosis of a benign lymphoepithelial cyst associated with HIV infection was made, and Western blotting confirmed the HIV infection. Three months after initiation of antiretroviral therapy, the parotid swelling was completely resolved. We report this case to suggest that clinicians should consider the possibility of HIV infection when patients present with benign lymphoepithelial cysts of the parotid gland.