A rare case of an epidermoid cyst of the parotid gland, from a radiologist perspective

Abstract

Cystic lesions in the parotid gland are uncommon, constituting around 5% of salivary gland tumors, with epidermoid cysts being a rare subset. This report presents the case of a 14-year-old girl with a slowly growing left parotid mass for 2 years. Radiological assessments, including ultrasound and MRI, revealed a well-defined cystic mass. Surgical excision confirmed the diagnosis of an epidermoid cyst, supported by histopathological examination. Epidermoid cysts in the parotid gland are infrequent, often asymptomatic, and their radiological features may overlap with other cystic lesions. This article discusses the clinical presentation, radiological aspects, and differential diagnoses of parotid epidermoid cysts.