Neuroglial Choristoma of the Middle Ear and Mastoid: A Case Report

Abstract

Neuroglial choristoma is a rare finding and is characterized by histologically normal neuronal and glial tissue located in the middle ear. Thirty-four cases were reported in the current literature since 1987. Neuronal and glial heterotopia is often paucisymptom-atic. Moreover, symptoms are usually nonspecific. The diagnosis is often challenging. We report an interesting case of neuroglial heterotopia of the tympanic cavity is reported. Histology revealed normal glial tissue containing nodules of neuronal cells with glial fibrils. The lesion was lined by epithelium. Simple gland-like epithelial inclusions were also present. Cytological alterations, necrosis, or atypical mitoses were not found. The immunohistochemical evidence of anti-glial fibrillary acidic protein, anti-synaptophysin and anti-S100 protein confirmed the glial nature of the lesion. Neuroglial choristoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of mass lesions of the tympanic cavity and mastoid.

Cite this article as: Piazza F, Rinaldi R, Devoti C. Neuroglial choristoma of the middle ear and mastoid: A case report. Balkan ORL-HNS. 2026, 3, 0096, 10.5152/bohns.2026.25096.