Ectopic Warthin's tumour presenting as a neck mass.

INTRODUCTION

Warthin's tumour usually involves the parotid gland. However, it can also arise from ectopic salivary tissue in the para-parotid and latero-cervical lymph nodes.

CASE REPORT: We present the case of a 60-year-old man with a 3-month history of a smooth, mobile mass on the right side of the neck. Computed tomography (CT) scanning (coronal, axial and sagittal sections) showed a cystic lesion in the right upper neck without connection to the major salivary glands (8 x 4 x 3 cm). Complete surgical excision with a transverse neck incision was performed. Histological findings of the specimen revealed Warthin's tumour.

CONCLUSION

This neoplasm should be included in the differential diagnosis of cystic lesions of the neck. Although rare, it has potential for malignant transformation. Coronal and sagittal CT scans are necessary to accurately localize the tumour and to differentiate the diagnosis from earring lesions of the parotid tail.