Pseudogout mimicking an infratemporal fossa tumor

Abstract

Background. The infratemporal fossa is a well-concealed, complex anatomical space. Neoplasms arising in this area are heterogenous in nature and have an insidious onset and usually present late. Methods and Results. We present a case of a 71-year-old woman who presented with worsening facial pain, trismus, and a large mass in her infratemporal fossa with minimal associated temporomandibular joint destruction. She underwent a surgical excision of the mass, which revealed a pseudogout deposit. Conclusion. The clinical and radiological features of patients with tophaceous pseudogout frequently mimic those of a benign or malignant neoplasm of the infratemporal fossa, often resulting in more radical surgery. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.