2 UNUSUAL BENIGN LESIONS OF THE NECK MASQUERADING AS MALIGNANCY ON FINE-NEEDLE ASPIRATION CYTOLOGY

Two cases of unusual benign tumors of the neck are described, both of which were initially misdiagnosed on cytology as carcinomas. Fine-need le aspiration findings in each case demonstrated a pleomorphic populat ion of cells including bizarre multi-nucleated giant cells, the latter raising the false impression of malignancy. However, on review the cy tological appearances of the tumors, a pleomorphic lipoma and a caroti d body tumor, were characteristic. The correct diagnosis in each case would have been made or suggested if the pathologist had been familiar with the cytologic features characteristic of the lesion and the diff erential diagnosis of the head and neck tumors. In addition, the point is made that adequate clinical information is essential for the patho logist if all relevant conditions are not to be missed in the differen tial diagnosis. (C) 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.