Nasal Glial Heterotopia-a Series of Four Cases

Abstract

Glial heterotopias are rare, benign, congenital, midline, non-teratomatous extra cranial glial tissues. They may masquerade as encephalocoele or dermoid cyst and mostly present in and around the nose. Clinically, these masses are firm and incompressible. Histologically, they are made up of astrocytes and neuroglial cells, embedded in fibrous and vascular connective tissue. Here in, we present 4 cases of nasal glial heterotopias. The first case was an 8 month old boy who presented with broadening of nose since birth. The second case was of 6 months old girl who presented with a soft tissue swelling over the root of the nose. The third case was of a 2 months old boy who presented with a soft tissue swelling over the nasolabial fold. The fourth case was a 5 month old boy with mass in left nostril. The radiological and histological features along with differential diagnosis are discussed. These cases are presented because of their rarity.