Tumor of the pharynx – an unexpected diagnosis

Abstract

Introduction. Head and neck haemangiomas occur quite rarely. These are benign lesions, often involving the pharynx and larynx. They almost always pose a diagnostic and therapeutic problem. Case description. This paper describes the case of an asymptomatic internal carotid artery aneurysm manifested by a throat tumour. A 78-year old woman with sudden deafness and vertigo was additionally diagnosed with a throat tumour. After radiological diagnosis of a haemangioma, the patient refused surgery. This article presents diagnostic methods and various types of treatments for head and neck haemangiomas. Attention was paid to the possibility of serious complications when deciding on surgical intervention of haemangiomas without a confirmed diagnosis. Conclusion. Suspicion of head and neck haemangiomas necessitates using all available diagnostic methods. The treatment plan should take into account the pace of progression, the patient’s age and co-morbid conditions.