Pleomorphic adenoma in ectopic salivary gland tissue in the neck

A case of pleomorphic adenoma originating from ectopic salivary gland tissue (ESGT) of the upper neck is reported. A 34-year-old male patient was referred to our Department for a painless swelling in the right submandibular region. Preoperative evaluation (clinical examination, fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and imaging studies) was performed and the finding was that of pleomorphic adenoma in ESGT A modified "S" incision with extension to the submandibular region was performed and the tumour was extirpated. The histopathological report confirmed our initial diagnosis. No recurrence was obtained during a four-year follow-up period. Isolated neck mass may be overlooked as ectopic salivary gland tissue neoplasm (ESGTN). Proper preoperative assessment and optimal surgical treatment are the keys for successful management of these rare tumours. The distinction between metastatic lesion from a head and neck tumour and ESGTN may present considerable diagnostic problem. A review of the literature on ESGT and associated tumours with emphasis on clinical features, diagnosis and treatment is also presented.