An organizing hematoma in the parapharyngeal space

Abstract

Organizing hematomas occur in many locations and simulate neoplasms. They all have similar structure, with a central mass of blood, a wall of granulation tissue, and dense, fibrous tissue at the periphery. There have been sporadic reports of organizing hematoma not only in soft tissue but also in brain, adrenal gland, lung and maxillary sinus. We report a case of nontraumatic head and neck organizing hematoma---one that occurred in the parapharyngeal space (PPS), a site that has not been previously reported. By doing so, since idiopathic organizing hematoma may occur, we hope to promote awareness and consideration of organizing hematoma in the differential diagnosis of tumor in the post-styloid compartment of the PPS, especially in patients with history of trauma or bleeding tendency.