Abstract

Objective: To report the clinical manifestations and the methods of taking charge of this pathology from two cases observed at the Mahajanga University Hospital.

Observation: The first case was a 3-year-old child referred for a right parotid swelling progressing from birth. This benign, non-inflammatory tumor was associated with sleep apnea episodes. Echography investigation confirmed the diagnosis of a parotid gland cyst, a surgical excision was carried out with simple follow-ups.

The second case was a 1 month old infant referred for suspected right parotitis. It was a non-inflammatory parotid swelling, gradually increasing in volume, with no other symptoms. The cervical scanner confirmed an intra-parotid cystic mass. After two months of monitoring, the tumor increased in size and episodes of sleep apnea appeared. Surgical excision was performed.

Conclusion: The diagnosis of intra-parotid cystic lymphangiomas is suspected by clinic examination. The natural evolution of the tumor can cause airway obstruction. Its parotid location complicates its management because this gland is transfixed by the facial nerve, thus increasing the risk of nerve damage during surgery. However, faced with the vital risk of obstruction of the airways, the surgery remains life-saving.

Keywords: Surgery; Facial; Cystic Lymphangioma; Parotid

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