[Cavernous hemangioma of the parotid gland in adults]

Parotid hemangiomas are rare in adults. Whereas both capillary and cavernous hemangiomas are seen in children, only cavernous hemangiomas have thus far been reported in adults. Clinically, cavernous hemangiomas usually present as slowly growing, soft or firm, movable, painless parotid masses. Severe pain and swelling can occur, however, depending on the size of the hemangioma or in particular in the presence of acute hemorrhage or thrombosis. CT and MRI are the diagnostic tools of choice. Prior to surgery, magnetic resonance angiography or intra-arterial digital subtraction angiography should be performed to investigate the vascular supply of the tumor. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice for small lesions. Large cavernous hemangiomas usually require superficial or total parotidectomy. Especially in the case of extended lesions, the facial nerve may be difficult to identify and should be monitored intraoperatively.