A rare case of a pleomorphic adenoma of the submandibular gland

We report the case of a 27-year-old female with a painless slowly growing mass that had developed over 2 years in the right submandibular region. Physical examination revealed a firm painless submandibular mass. Fine-needle aspiration and computed tomography (CT) scan concluded a pleomorphic adenoma of the submandibular gland. The patient underwent a right total submandibular sialoadenectomy. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma arising from the submandibular gland. Transient palsy of the marginal mandibular division of the facial nerve was noted post-operatively, which recovered with supportive management. Pleomorphic adenoma of the submandibular gland represents a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma in young adults. Preoperative evaluation, including MRI/CT scan and fine-needle aspiration, is recommended in all cases. Total submandibular sialoadenectomy is the standard recommended treatment to minimise recurrences and avoid malignant transformation.