Auricular Vascular Leiomyoma: A Case Report and Literature Review

Vascular leiomyoma (VL; angioleiomyoma) is an uncommon benign tumor arising from smooth muscle cells within the tunica media of blood vessels, typically presenting as solitary, firm nodules. It predominantly occurs in the lower extremities but rarely involves the head and neck region, particularly the auricle. Auricular VLs commonly appear as small, sharply-demarcated nodules that are generally asymptomatic. Nonetheless, a subset of patients may experience episodic pain, which can be elicited or intensified by environmental or mechanical factors including pressure and cold exposure, complicating clinical diagnosis. Due to the nonspecific presentation, auricular lesions are frequently misdiagnosed preoperatively. Definitive diagnosis relies on histological examination. Herein, we present a rare case involving the right auricle, accompanied by a concise review of the relevant literature to enhance clinical awareness, support early diagnosis, and guide appropriate surgical management of this rare entity.