Imaging case book. Oropharyngeal neuroglial choristoma

Oropharyngeal neuroglial choristoma with extension into the parapharyngeal space

Oropharyngeal neuroglial choristomas are exceptionally rare head and neck tumours that contain mature neuroglial tissue. We report a case of neuroglial choristoma centred in the oropharynx and extending into the parapharyngeal space that, to the best of our knowledge, is the only case whose appearance simulated brain cortical gyri with an apparent differentiation between white and grey matter. We illustrate and detail the magnetic imaging findings of oropharyngeal choristoma that might help to establish a correct preoperative diagnosis.

A Rare Case of Glial Choristoma Arising from the Vomer in Association with Cleft Palate

Heterotopic neuroglial tissue represents normal glial tissue in an abnormal location distant from the central nervous system. It is a rare congenital condition and the majority of these lesions are diagnosed at birth or early childhood. We report a rare case scenario of a growth arising from the vomer associated with cleft palate. The origin of a glial choristoma from the midline of the nasal cavity in association with a cleft palate has not been reported in the literature. Complete surgical excision was performed prior to palatoplasty with no postoperative complications or evidence of recurrence.

Oropharyngeal neuroglial choristoma with extension into the parapharyngeal space

Oropharyngeal neuroglial choristomas are exceptionally rare head and neck tumours that contain mature neuroglial tissue. We report a case of neuroglial choristoma centred in the oropharynx and extending into the parapharyngeal space that, to the best of our knowledge, is the only case whose appearance simulated brain cortical gyri with an apparent differentiation between white and grey matter. We illustrate and detail the magnetic imaging findings of oropharyngeal choristoma that might help to establish a correct preoperative diagnosis.

Optic Nerve Choristoma Mimicking a Neurenteric Cyst

Optic nerve choristomas are rare entities in which a developmental focus of histologically normal tissue is abnormally located within or along a segment of the optic nerve. Although benign, choristomas may demonstrate slow growth, ultimately resulting in visual field deficits due to compression of the adjacent nerve in the few cases reported in the anterior fossa. Choristomas may have cystic components, though this has not been described in such lesions along the optic nerve. Here, a predominantly cystic optic nerve choristoma is described, with radiologic features mimicking those of an anterior cranial fossa neurenteric cyst. The case highlights the radiology-pathology correlates of choristomas and reviews the surgical approach and management of patients with such lesions.