Fine-needle aspiration cytological features of dermoid cyst of the parotid gland: a report of two cases

Abstract

We describe the cytological features of dermoid cyst of the parotid gland the value of preoperative diagnosis by fine-needle aspiration (FNA) cytological evaluation. Both patients had painless parotid masses. On physical examination, a freely movable parotid mass was found in each case. CT scan showed a cystic mass in the parotid gland in each patient. FNA in both cases showed anucleated and nucleated squamous epithelium and keratin debris. The clinical features and cytological findings in each case were interpreted as suggestive of a dermoid cyst. Histological examination of surgical specimens confirmed the presence of a dermoid cyst of the parotid gland in each case. FNA is a reliable method for preoperative diagnosis and permits selection of an appropriate form of surgical procedure for dermoid cyst of the parotid gland.