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Septal pleomorphic adenoma masquerading as squamous cell carcinoma
B S Liao1, R L Hilsinger, E Chong
1Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Oakland, CA 94611-5693.
Ear, Nose, & Throat Journal
|December 1, 1993
Summary
A misdiagnosed intranasal mass initially thought to be squamous cell carcinoma was ultimately diagnosed as pleomorphic adenoma. This case highlights challenges in diagnosing nasal tumors from initial biopsies.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pathology
- Oncology
Background:
- Intranasal masses can present diagnostic challenges.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate treatment and avoiding unnecessary radical surgery.
Observation:
- A 43-year-old woman presented with midfacial pain and an intranasal mass.
- Initial biopsy specimens from three institutions were diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma.
Findings:
- The final diagnosis of the resected specimen was pleomorphic adenoma of the septum.
- The initial diagnosis was misleading, leading to a potential misclassification of the tumor type.
Implications:
- Otolaryngologists must recognize the potential for misdiagnosis in initial intranasal mass biopsies.
- Awareness of diagnostic pitfalls can prevent overly aggressive surgical interventions for benign tumors.