Kimura disease presenting as epiglottic masses: A case report.

BackgroundKimura disease presents considerable diagnostic and therapeutic challenges because of its rarity, polymorphic early manifestations, recalcitrant clinical course, high recurrence rate, and potential for multiorgan involvement.Case presentationA Chinese woman in her late 40s presented with a 3-year history of foreign body sensation in the pharynx and a 6-month history of dysarthria. Laryngoscopy revealed a smooth mass on the epiglottis. Laboratory investigations demonstrated elevated peripheral blood eosinophil counts and serum immunoglobulin E levels. The mass, together with the epiglottic cartilage, was surgically resected. Histopathological examination of paraffin-embedded specimens confirmed the diagnosis of Kimura disease. Postoperatively, low-dose corticosteroid therapy was administered. No recurrence was observed during follow-up.ConclusionThis case provides novel insights into Kimura disease and underscores the importance of including this condition in the differential diagnosis of epiglottic masses. Systemic glucocorticoids represent a valuable therapeutic option. Importantly, close long-term follow-up is essential for optimal patient management.