[Solitary neurofibroma of the maxillary sinus].

OBJECTIVE: To illustrate the rarity and difficulty diagnosing maxillary sinus neurofibroma through a case report.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: A 35-year-old female consulted our department for left cheek swelling evolving over 6 months, upper gum swelling, and a dental occlusion disorder.

RESULTS: A computed tomography scan showed a tumor of the left maxillary sinus with bone destruction. Histological examination of a biopsy fragment found an in situ carcinoma. A maxillary resection was performed to excise the tumor. Histological examination of the specimen showed a neurofibroma. No sign of recurrence was noted after 8 months of follow-up.

CONCLUSION: The difficulty diagnosing maxillary sinus neurofibroma is related to its nonspecific clinical and radiological signs. Consequently, the otorhinolaryngologist must keep this rare histological variety in mind within the range of tumors of the paranasal sinuses.