Cavernous Hemangioma in the Parotid Gland of an Adult: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

Hemangiomas are benign vascular tumors and are classified into cavernous, capillary, and mixed, with the head and neck area as the most common site. Hemangiomas are common in pediatrics and rare in adults. Diagnosing cavernous hemangioma is challenging and requires a complete history, proper physical examination, and several radiological modalities to improve diagnostic accuracy because it is uncommon in adults. Herein, we present a case of a 66-year-old female Saudi patient with cavernous hemangioma from the diagnosis until the surgical treatment. No previous studies are reported in Saudi Arabia and this is a rare presentation of cavernous hemangioma at this age. Cavernous hemangioma in the parotid gland in adults is uncommon and is difficult to diagnose. Therefore, a thorough physical examination and several radiological modalities are required to improve diagnostic accuracy. The most effective treatment of cavernous hemangioma in adults is surgical resection.

Keywords: hemangiomas; mass; parotid gland; salivary glands; vascular tumors.

Figure 1. CT head and neck (axial section)

An enlarged, non-enhanced oval shaped left mandibular mass located superficial to and lying on the left masseter muscle measuring 1.2 cm with foci of calcification; minimal peripheral enhancing components.

Figure 2. CT head and neck (coronal section)

An enlarged, non-enhanced oval shaped left mandibular mass located superficial to and lying on the left masseter muscle measuring 1.2 cm with foci of calcification; minimal peripheral enhancing components.