Tumefactive fibroinflammatory lesions of the head and neck

Abstract

We use the term "tumefactive fibroinflammatory lesion" to describe an unusual fibrosclerosing disorder that appears to be malignant clinically, yet it actually is a benign but destructive tumor. In 12 patients (6 men and 6 women; age at diagnosis, 33 to 71 years), the lesion sites were neck in 4 patients, parotid gland in 4, antrum in 2, nasal cavity in 1, tongue in 1, nasopharynx in 1, and buccal space in 1. Although the biologic behavior and the surgical findings suggest that this lesion is an invasive, aggressive malignancy, the histologic appearance is a benign lesion consisting of an admixture of fibrous tissue and inflammatory cells. Treatment has included surgical removal and radiation therapy. Dramatic resolution of these lesions has occurred with the use of steroids.