Giant facial haematoma in neurofibromatosis type 1

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an inherited autosomal dominant disorder. Haematoma is an unusual complication of neurofibromatosis and extremely rare in the maxillofacial region. A case of haematoma in NF1 of the left face is presented. MR images of acute haematoma in NF1 and radiographic features of the mandible are described. Stenosis of the internal jugular vein was noted in MR angiography (MRA). Surgical resection of the tumour and evacuation of blood clots were performed. Histological and immunohistochemical examination demonstrated that the neurofibroma tumour cells infiltrated the mural layer of vessels without malignant translation. MRI is a good choice for depicting haematoma in neurofibromatosis. Intratumour haemorrhage may result from the infiltration of vessels into the lesion and minor trauma on the affected area.