Intramuscular hemangioma of the head and neck

Intramuscular hemangiomas are unusual tumors in the head and neck region that occur most frequently in the masseter muscle and are often confused with parotid neoplasms. Four cases are described and the literature reviewed. The diagnosis and management of these tumors are discussed in view of the fact that accurate preoperative diagnosis is unusual and tumor recurrence rates high. Increased awareness of the clinical presentation of intramuscular hemangiomas should enhance diagnostic accuracy and facilitate optimal treatment planning.