An unusual case of a synovial sarcoma of the parotid gland in an elderly patient

Synovial sarcoma is a malignant soft tissue neoplasm which mostly occurs in adolescents and young adults. The tumor is rare in the head and neck region although it has been described at virtually every anatomic site. Synovial sarcoma can mimic benign lesions clinically and histologically and is therefore sometimes difficult to diagnose. We present a case of a synovial sarcoma in the parotid gland of a 72-year old patient. Immunohistochemistry and genetic testing of the tumor were performed to confirm the diagnosis. The treatment options are discussed. The case shows that synovial sarcoma should be considered as a differential diagnosis for uncertain parotid lesions in all age groups.