Stroke Secondary to a Parapharyngeal Pleomorphic Adenoma – Case Report

Aims: Parapharyngeal Space (PPS) tumours are rare and may present as painless masses only becoming evident because of their mass effect. The diagnosis is more difficult when they do not present with any obvious clinical features. This case report seeks to highlight this type of tumour and the possibility of transoral resection when the lesion is small.

Presentation of Case: We present the case of a parapharyngeal tumour whose mass effect led to a cerebrovascular accident. The lesion was excised piecemeal transorally and the patient is now walking with an improved quality of life. Repeat CT scan showed a normal brain parenchyma and neck.

Discussion: PPS tumours can lead to many consequences thus a high index of suspicion is needed to diagnose and treat them. The type and location of the tumour should guide the type of approach employed.

Conclusion: PPS tumours of the prestyloid area of small size may be excised transorally by gentle and careful dissection.