“Parapharyngeal space” tumors: A cytopathological study of 24 cases on fine‐needle aspiration

• DOI: 10.1002/dc.20154
• Publication Date: 2004-12-06T21:46:43Z
• Authors: Bahram R. Oliai; Sheila Sheth; Frances H. Burroughs; Syed Z. Ali
• Keywords: Parapharyngeal space; Hamartoma

Abstract The parapharyngeal space (PPS) is a well‐defined anatomic zone of loose connective tissue lying deep to the tonsil and lateral pharynx. Neoplasms arising within PPS are rare. We retrospectively reviewed 24 fine‐needle aspirations (FNAs) performed at Johns Hopkins Hospital over past 16 years (1987–2002). Patients presented with neck pain, dysphagia, and/or intraoral swelling varying duration. Radiographic imaging disclosed masses, in size from 2.5 8 cm. most common clinicoradiographic suspicion was nerve sheath tumor. Six cases had FNA using 23‐gauge needle via transoral approach outpatient suite whereas remainder were aspirated 22‐gauge Franseen under CT guidance. (25%) nondiagnostic due lack adequate cellular material. Of the18 considered diagnostic, there nine (50%) pleomorphic adenomas (PAs); three (17%) squamous‐cell carcinomas (SCC); one each oncocytoma, adenocarcinoma, not otherwise specified (NOS), adenoid cystic carcinoma, lipoma, neurofibroma, non‐Hodgkin lymphoma, together comprising remaining 33%. Four six deemed (consisting predominantly blood) on subsequent follow‐up revealed paraganglioma (two cases), SCC (one case), schwannoma case). an uncommon target procedure. masses represent heterogeneous group neoplasms which PA appears common, representing 50% our diagnostic cases. rate samples moderately high excessive bleeding encountered this location other technical problems relating adequately targeting lesion close vicinity major vessels. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2005;32:11–15. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.