A Rare Localization of Recurrent Pleomorphic Adenoma: The Maxillary Sinus

Abstract

The case presented is a rare localization of pleomorphic adenoma, the most frequent benign tumor of the parotid gland, found in the maxillary sinus. A 13-year-old girl presented with a palatal mass. An incisional biopsy revealed pleomorphic adenoma of the maxillary sinus, and excision of the mass and reconstruction of the defect with a bone allograft was performed. The patient was followed up for 6 years with no recurrence and no additional therapy was required. At the end of the sixth year, however, the patient became aware of regrowth in the palate, and underwent recurrent mass curettage and another reconstruction with a bone allograft. The pathology of the specimen was once again pleomorphic adenoma. No recurrence was recorded during postoperative year 1 after the second operation. Pleomorphic adenoma is frequently seen in the parotid gland, but maxillary sinus presentation is very rare. Pleomorphic adenoma should also be considered when there is painless growth of the palatal tissue.