Dermoid cyst of the deep lobe of the parotid gland

A mass in the parotid gland may cause a diagnostic dilemma for the clinician. Cystic infra-auricular masses in pediatric patients are most often suggestive of a branchial cleft cyst. Dermoid cysts have only rarely been encountered in the parotid gland. Here, we present a case of a 15-year-old female patient with a cystic mass in the left infra-auricular area. Total parotidectomy under continuous facial nerve monitoring was performed. Dermoid cysts of the parotid gland are extremely rare and a diagnostic challenge, but they still should be kept in mind during the differential diagnosis of persistent enlargement of the parotid gland in pediatric patients as well. We underline the necessity of thoroughly examining suspected cysts using ultrasonography or magnetic resonance imaging.