Primitive Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Pterygopalatine Fossa

Primitive tumors of pterygopalatine fossa (PPF) are often benign tumors or extension of a malignant sinonasal tract. Primitive tumors may rarely occur in PPF. The authors present a 71-year-old woman with a 6-month history of left cranial nerve palsy. Magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography–computed tomography showed an enhancing isolated lesion at the PPF. A transmaxillary biopsy was performed, leading to diagnosis of primitive squamous cell carcinoma. The patient underwent radiotherapy treatment. Primitive tumors of PPF are rare and diagnosis may be difficult. Endoscopic access for diagnosis can be performed. Squamous cell carcinoma occurring in PPF is associated with poor prognosis. Address correspondence and reprint requests to Olivier Mauvais, MD, Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital of Besançon, 2 Boulevard Fleming, 25030 Besançon, France; E-mail: omauvais@chu-besancon.fr Received 18 October, 2017 Accepted 21 November, 2017 The authors report no conflicts of interest. © 2018 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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