Diagnostic and Surgical Challenge in the Management of a Rare Tumor of Skull Base and Face

Abstract

Aim: We report a rare case of lateral skull base hamartoma. The diagnostic dilemma, the therapeutic challenge and the importance of interdisciplinary approach to decrease the morbidity has been discussed. Method: We report a rare case of a 48-year-old male with swelling over the left side of face and cheek for a duration of 12 years, who presented to us only for his cosmetic deformity and no functional impairment, after a thorough clinical examination and series of invasive and noninvasive investigations, was diagnosed to have a rare tumor hamartoma of skull base and face. A complete surgical excision without morbidity was made possible only by a multidisciplinary team approach. The investigation and surgical approach to reduce per operative morbidity has been discussed. Microscopic examination of the excised specimen with special staining techniques was conclusive for hamartoma. Patient has been on a regular follow-up for the last 2 years with no evidence of recurrence and functional compromise.Discussion: The rarity of the tumor, the difficulty in diagnosis, management and prognosis of hamartoma have been discussed. Conclusion:Hamartoma of the infratemporal fossa is a rare tumor and those originating in this surgically challenging site are even rarer. Further their close proximity to vital structures in head and neck poses a formidable challenge in their diagnosis and surgical management to achieve a good cosmetic and functional result.