CASE OF THE MONTH

Benign Mixed Tumor



A 28 year old man presented with a freely mobile, rubbery, well circumscribed right preauricular mass which had been present for two years.  The patient reported slow growth and no associated pain or discomfort.  The FNA biopsy consisted of matrix with associated epithelial and myoepithelial cells.  Of interest was the number of tyrosine crystals that were present.  Tyrosine crystals are an unusual but non-specific feature of benign mixed tumors, the diagnosis which was rendered in this case.

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