[Rare site of an adenoid cystic carcinoma in the nasopharynx]

Abstract

We report the case of a 63-year-old patient suffering from a nasopharyngeal adenoid cystic carcinoma. She presented with increased oral secretion and pharyngeal irritation, Horner's syndrome, and trigeminal neuralgia. Magnetic resonance imaging scans revealed a tumor of the nasopharyngeal space invading the right cranial base. Lymph node metastases were clinically excluded. The histological sample confirmed an adenoid cystic carcinoma, which was therapeutically treated with adequate radiotherapy. Based on the presented case report and a review of the literature, we discuss the diagnosis and treatment of adenoid cystic carcinomas of the nasopharynx.