Unusual localization of an adenoid cystic carcinoma subsequent to superficial parotidectomy for a benign lesion

Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the parotid gland is relatively rare. According to a retrospective study of the medical records and histopathology files of 514 cases of parotid tumors operated at our hospital over a period of 18 years, adenoid cystic carcinoma represented only 2.3% of all parotid gland neoplasms, a total of 12 cases. In our records we retrieved only one documented case of adenoid cystic carcinoma that originated in the parotid gland subsequent to superficial parotidectomy for a benign lesion (pleomorphic adenoma).An even more exceptional presentation of adenoid cystic carcinoma is as a bilobed tumor extending from the post auricular to the temporal and zygomatic region. The management of this case is presented along with a brief review of the literature concerning the evaluation and management of this rare entity.