Neuroendocrine Parotid Mass: Atypical Salivary Gland Case

Abstract

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are notably rare and typically located in the gastrointestinal tract and lungs. Neuroendocrine small cell carcinoma (SCC), a subtype of NETs, is frequently found in the nasal cavity, while primary neuroendocrine SCC of the parotid gland is exceedingly rare, constituting less than 1% of all salivary gland tumors. This report details the case of a 79-year-old Hispanic male with an unusual parotid neuroendocrine tumor, as confirmed by the final pathology report. To our knowledge, there are no existing data on neuroendocrine parotid tumors in the Latin-American population, and no previous cases have been documented. This report presents the first such case in this demographic, highlighting diagnostic approaches and recommended management strategies.