Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Parapharyngeal Space Primary Surgically Treated with Poor Outcome: A Case Report

Abstract

Solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) is rare vascular tumor constituting approximately 1% of all angiogenic tumors, about 15%-20% of them occur in the head and neck region. Until now, only few cases of SFT in parapharyngeal space have been described in literature. The diagnosis relies on histological examination, while computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging may provide useful preoperative information about tumor features. This article presents a case of SFT in a 55-year-old female where the disease was localized within the parapharyngeal space. Clinical manifestations were limited to the difficulty in swallowing and swelling in the area of the soft palate and neck. She underwent surgery using a transoral and transcervical approach and experienced a good postoperative recovery. Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis and the tumor was graded as low-risk group for malignancy. Seven years later, she had relapse of the tumor, received radiotherapy, and died 2 months after that. This case underscores the need for a comprehensive evaluation because, despite the fact that the tumor was classified in the group of low malignant potential and the gross resection of the tumor was performed, the patient had a relapse that did not go away even after radiotherapy.

Cite this article as: Samac K, Dragi"evi# D, Tovilovi# V, et al. Solitary fibrous tumor of the parapharyngeal space primary surgically treated with poor outcome: A case report. Balkan ORL-HNS 2025;2(3):86-90.