Nodular fasciitis over the anterior wall of the maxillary sinus: a case report and review of the literature

Nodular fasciitis (NF) is a benign tumor that grows extending from the muscular fascia to the subcutaneous tissue and, less frequently, into the underlying muscle. The cause of such proliferation is unknown, although trauma is believed to be important because of the location of these lesions over bony prominences. NF can often be confused with myofibromatosis or a sarcoma owing to its rapid rate of growth, rich cellularity, and mitotic activity. It is important, therefore, to distinguish the lesion from a more aggressive condition. NF that occurs in otherwise healthy individuals usually presents with a history of rapid growth, and is commonly found in the upper extremities and on the chest and trunk. We present a case of NF in a 39-year-old female patient occurring over the anterior wall of the maxillary sinus, along with a review of the literature.