Myxoma of the Zygomatic Bone - A Case Report

Abstract

Myxoma is a benign tumor composed of primitive connective tissue cells and mesenchymal mucousal stroma. Also referred to as, a gelationus or colloidal tumor. Although rare, it can be found in the atrium of the heart, and it is the most common heart tumor. It has also been described in other body sites, one of which is the bone.

We report a case of a 57-year-old female patient, with recurrent headaches located in the area of the right half of the face.

Radiological analysis (Multislice Computed Tomography of the paranasal sinuses and viscerocranium) was performed, and a formation of irregular contours, destroying the right zygomatic bone, was described, measuring 25 x 17 x 20 mm in its widest diameters. Its medial border was adjacent to the lateral wall of the right maxillary sinus and the cortical bone in this segment was thinned, but  preserved.

A probatory excision was performed in general anesthesia, and the histopathological finding showed, star-like tumor cells embedded in mucoid stroma and infiltrating the bone. After pathohistological confirmation of myxoma, the tumor was excised in total, using infraorbital surgical approach to the zygomatic bone.

During the follow-up, the patient was symptom free, without headaches, and there were no signs of local tumor recurrence.

Despite of the fact that myxoma behaves as a benign disease in its nature, it can cause destruction of the tissue in the vicinity of the tumor itself, and thus major health issues for the patient. A timely proper diagnosis and the right choice of a surgical treatment can help avoid more extensive surgery procedures, as shown in our case report.