WHEN COMMON PRESENTATIONS HIDE RARE PATHOLOGIES: A CASE OF INTRAPAROTID LIPOMA

Abstract

Background: Lipomas are the most common benign mesenchymal tumours, but their occurrence within the parotid gland is extremely rare, accounting for <5% of parotid tumours. Their clinical similarity to more frequent benign salivary neoplasms often delays diagnosis.

Case Presentation: We describe a 65-year-old male with a slowly enlarging, painless right parotid swelling of two years’ duration. Examination revealed a soft, mobile, non-tender mass elevating the earlobe with preserved facial nerve function. FNAC yielded adipocytic fragments suggestive of lipoma, while CT demonstrated a fat-density lesion confined to the superficial lobe of the parotid.

Management and Outcome: The patient underwent complete excision via a modified Blair incision with meticulous preservation of the facial nerve. Histopathology confirmed intraparotid lipoma. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, with intact facial function and excellent cosmetic outcome at three months.

Conclusion: This case underscores the rarity of intraparotid lipomas, highlights the value of imaging in diagnosis, and affirms that careful surgical excision ensures cure with minimal morbidity.