A case report of pleomorphic adenoma in the parapharyngeal space

ABSTRACT

Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common of the benign salivary gland tumors. Pleomorphic adenoma accounts for 60% of all parotid gland tumors, 50% of submandibular gland tumors, and only 25% of sublingual gland neoplasms. Fifty percent of all oral minor gland tumors are pleomorphic adenomas of which 55% arise in the palate, 25% in the lip, 10% in the buccal mucosa, and 10% from all other oral and oropharyngeal sites. The presence of tumors within the parapharyngeal space is rare. Some investigators have reported pleomorphic adenomas originating in the deep lobe of the parotid gland advancing to involve this region, as well as primary pleomorphic adenomas of nonparotid origin. We present a case report of pleomorphic adenoma in the parapharyngeal space with literature review. The tumor was completely removed under general anesthesia via submandibular incision with the division of mandible.