Multiple Oncocytomas of the Minor Salivary Glands Presenting as a Parapharyngeal Tumour: With Review of Literature

Minor salivary glands, numbering approximately 600–1000, are distributed throughout the upper aerodigestive tract. Neoplasms originating in these glands represent a small fraction of all salivary gland tumours. We present a rare case of multiple minor salivary oncocytomas presenting as a parapharyngeal mass, mimicking a deep lobe of parotid tumour in a 62-year-old male. The patient reported a two-month history of swelling in the left preauricular region and a left lateral pharyngeal bulge on intraoral examination. Radiology revealed distinct masses and fine needle aspiration cytology indicated a non-neoplastic aetiology. Excision biopsy revealed two separate masses, distinct from the parotid gland. Histopathological examination and immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of this unique pathology - minor salivary gland oncocytomas. This case highlights the importance of considering multiple tumours even when a single mass is clinically evident and the need to include minor salivary gland oncocytoma in the differential diagnosis of parapharyngeal masses, underscoring the role of comprehensive evaluation and prompt surgical intervention.