Introduction and importance: Lipomatous neoplasms of the parotid gland represent an exceptionally rare and often underdiagnosed category of tumors, accounting for an incidence ranging from 0.6 % to 4.4 % of all neoplasms detected within the parotid gland. Sialolipoma is defined as an uncommon variant of lipoma, characterized by a well-defined proliferation of mature adipocytes with secondary entrapment of salivary gland elements, including serous acini, ducts, and myoepithelial cells.
Case presentation: The current case pertains to a 17-year-old female who presented with a one-year history of enlargement in the left preauricular region.
Clinical discussion: The case we present poses a complex diagnostic challenge due to two distinct characteristics. The diagnostic challenge lies in its remarkably low incidence and the propensity for confusion with pleomorphic adenoma, which is the most common tumor of the parotid gland. It is a benign disease entity characterized by the absence of dysplasia, in marked contrast to pleomorphic adenoma.
Conclusions: The infrequency in the manifestation of these tumor types, coupled with their prolonged asymptomatic course, can pose a diagnostic challenge. Enhancing our knowledge to comprehensively delineate these entities is imperative to effectively address the diagnostic complexities from both clinical and histopathological standpoints.
Keywords: Case report; Parotid gland; Salivary gland tumor; Sialolipoma.
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