Hyperplasia of lymphoid structures in the hypopharynx: a case report

INTRODUCTION: Ectopic tonsillar tissue simulating a benign tumor of the hypopharynx is described in this report. CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of a 79-year-old Japanese woman with globus sensation. Because clinical observation revealed benign features, tumor tissue was laryngoscopically resected. From the pathological features, for example, existence of germinal center, lymphoid tissue, and crypt involving lymphoepithelial symbiosis, we diagnosed that the lesion was a hyperplasia of ectopic tonsillar tissue. CONCLUSIONS: Although ectopic tonsillar tissue of the hypopharynx is relatively rare, it should be kept in mind during differential diagnosis.