Extra-cranial tumours of the infratemporal fossa

We have reviewed the world literature on infra-temporal fossa tumours and have presented a further 12 cases diagnosed by ourselves. The similarity in incidence of the 3 types of tumor (1) primary, (ii) contiguous and (iii) metastatic between our series and world experience has been observed. The anatomy of the intra-temporal fossa has been described in detail and the connection between the infra-temporal fossa and the parapharyngeal space is clarified. We also have emphasised the relationship between the deep lobe of the parotid gland and the infra-temporal fossa, and the improbability of deep lobe tumours spreading to the infra-temporal fossa, although superficial lobe tumours may do so by invasion through the mandibular notch. Attention has been direct to the frequent presentation of these tumours in the superior gingivo-buccal sulcus. Since facial pain is frequently a presenting symptom of these tumours many months before diagnosis, emphasis has been laid on the desirability of CAT scanning forming an integral part of the investigation, especially in patients complaining of undiagnosed facial pain.