Treatment of parotid gland oncocytoma: a case report from a radiation oncologist's perspective.

BACKGROUND: Parotid oncocytoma is a rare benign neoplasm for which surgical excision remains the standard treatment. Although the recurrence rate is generally low, it increases significantly in cases with multifocal lesions or incomplete surgical excision. In such scenarios, postoperative radiotherapy (RT) has been shown to improve local control, reduce recurrence rates, and minimize the need for reoperation. This report presents a representative case of parotid oncocytoma, with a focused discussion on therapeutic decision-making from a radiation oncologist's perspective.

CASE REPORT: We report the case of a 61-year-old man who underwent left superficial parotidectomy for a firm mass located below his left ear. Postoperative pathological examination confirmed parotid oncocytoma. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed an enhancing nodule in the deep portion of the left parotid gland, measuring 1.6 cm in maximum diameter. Following multidisciplinary team (MDT) discussion, postoperative radiotherapy was recommended to avoid potential facial nerve injury associated with repeat parotid surgery.

CONCLUSION: This case illustrates the use of postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy for left parotid oncocytoma. Although parotid oncocytoma is benign, adjuvant radiotherapy may be considered in selected cases with a high risk of recurrence.