Congenital Facial Infiltrating Lipomatosis: A Rare Cause of Facial Asymmetry in Infants

• Published in: Ear, nose, & throat journal nose, & throat journal, 2024-04, p.1455613241241869-1455613241241869
• Main Authors: El Omri, Malika, Mouna, Belakhdher, Safa, Jemlii, Zeineb, Nfikha, Monia, Ghammem, Jihene, Houas, Wassim, Kermani
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0145-5613; 1942-7522
• DOI: 10.1177/01455613241241869

Congenital facial infiltrating lipomatosis (CFIL) is a rare condition that typically affects the trunk and limbs, but can also occur in the face. Managing CFIL is a significant challenge due to its diffuse involvement in important facial structures. This case report aims to describe a rare form of lipomatosis and discuss the clinical and therapeutic aspects of this entity. The patient was a 5-year-old girl who was admitted to our department due to a right paralateronasal swelling that had been present for 5 months. During the physical examination, a swelling of the right nasolabial was observed. A computed tomography scan of the facial bone revealed an extra bony soft tissue mass near the vestibule of the right nostril in contact with the frontal process of the maxillary bone and the anterior wall of the right maxillary sinus. The patient underwent excision under general anesthesia. The histological report indicated congenital focal lipomatosis. There was no recurrence of swelling a year after initial surgery. Facial infiltrating lipomatosis is a rare congenital disorder in which mature lipocytes invade adjacent tissue. Due to its diffuse infiltration and involvement of important facial structures, complete surgical excision is often impossible. Specific management of this condition requires insight into its pathogenesis as surgical removal of the mass is usually unsuccessful.