HIV-associated parotid lymphoepithelial cysts

Abstract

Background: An outstanding feature of the diffuse infiltrative lymphocytosis syndrome, or DILS, a subset of HIV-1 disease, is asymptomatic bilateral parotid swelling. Recognition of the entity is important because people with this disease will seek routine dental care.

Case description: The authors present a classic case of DILS. The patient exhibited bilateral parotid swellings caused by lymphoepithelial cysts, cervical lymphadenopathy, a CD8 circulating lymphocytosis and a CD8 lymphocytic infiltration into the labial salivary glands. A right superficial parotidectomy had been performed several years previously. However, no intervention was advised for the remaining left parotid because of its benign course.

Clinical implications: Since patients with DILS can develop lymphomas, periodic observation is mandatory. Any change in the growth pattern requires that a fine-needle aspiration biopsy be performed.