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Updated: Jul 29, 2026

A Model for Perineural Invasion in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: January 5, 2017
Metastatic breast carcinoma in the parapharyngeal space
V Raut1, A R Sinnathuray, G McClean
1Department of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery, Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, UK. rautvivek@hotmail.com
Abstract:
The parapharyngeal space is a complex anatomical area, which can give rise to a variety of both primary and metastatic neoplasms. We present an unusual case of metastatic adenocarcinoma of the breast, masquerading as a deep lobe parotid neoplasm, 15 years after the primary presentation. Metastatic breast carcinoma has been previously reported at other sites in the head and neck but this is the first report of metastases in the parapharyngeal space with an oropharyngeal presentation.
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