Nodular fasciitis of the parotid gland engulfing the facial nerve: a conservative approach

Abstract

Nodular fasciitis (NF) is a rapidly growing benign lesion rarely reported in the parotid gland. It shares cytological features with other benign and malignant parotid neoplasms and may be difficult to diagnose based on fine needle aspiration cytology alone. Given this diagnostic conundrum, surgical excision for histology is recommended to facilitate definitive diagnosis. A case with significant involvement of the facial nerve is described, which has not previously been reported in the literature. Despite features of potential malignancy, the decision was taken to biopsy the lesion and not proceed to complete excision in an attempt to reduce the risk of facial nerve injury. Expert opinion later diagnosed NF. Contrary to accepted practice, where diagnostic uncertainty remains around the malignant potential of a lesion, risks and benefits of complete excision versus a conservative approach should be carefully weighed especially when the facial nerve is involved and NF is a possible diagnosis.

Keywords: ear, nose and throat/otolaryngology; head and neck cancer; head and neck surgery; surgical oncology.

Figure 1

MRI neck with contrast showing the lesion in the anterior aspect of the superficial lobe of the right parotid gland demonstrating contrast enhancement (A = anterior; P = posterior; S = superiror; I = inferior; R = right; L = left; Ax = axial).

Figure 2

Intraoperative photograph showing the lesion stuck onto the facial nerve.