Pleomorphic Adenoma of the Palate: Two Case Reports from Parakou

Introduction: Pleomorphic adenoma is a benign tumor that primarily arises in the major salivary glands. Its occurrence in the minor salivary glands is rare. Localization in the palate is frequently reported in the literature. The aim of this study was to specify the characteristics of pleomorphic adenoma of the palate in two patients and to describe their management in the department of otorhinolaryngology-head and neck surgery (ENT-HNS) at the Borgou University Teaching Hospital. Case Presentation: We report two male patients aged 24 and 25 years with no significant medical history, admitted for palatal swelling with a 2-month history in one case and a 6-year history in the other. The swelling progressively enlarged and was associated with intermittent dysphagia to solid foods. Physical examination revealed palatal masses measuring 5 - 6 cm in greatest dimension, non-tender, firm in consistency, and covered with normal-appearing mucosa. Examination of the lymph node areas was unremarkable. Facial computed tomography performed in both patients revealed a mixed-density tumor with no evidence of bony erosion. Surgical management consisted of excision under general anesthesia with preservation of the palatal mucosa. Postoperatively, both patients received nasogastric tube feeding to optimize intraoral wound healing. Histopathological examination concluded that the lesion was benign and consistent with pleomorphic adenoma in both cases. The postoperative course was uneventful, with satisfactory wound healing and favorable outcomes at 12 and 13 months of follow-up, respectively. Conclusion: Palatal tumor localization may compromise vital functions such as swallowing. Early management is essential to ensure adequate swallowing function in patients.