Right-sided cheek mass in a 10-year-old male

Background: Castleman disease is a lymphoproliferative disorder that can present in multiple locations throughout the body. While considered a benign entity, Castleman disease in the pediatric head and neck can resemble other common childhood malignancies. Methods: This report describes a case of Castleman disease in a 10-year-old male who presented with a progressively enlarging facial mass; work-up revealed aggressive histopathological and imaging features concerning for rhabdomyosarcoma. The patient ultimately required surgical resection for definitive diagnosis. Results: The facial mass was successfully resected without complication. A diagnosis of unicentric Castleman disease was made based on final histopathological evaluation of the permanent specimen. The mass has not recurred one year postoperatively. Conclusions: Castleman disease in the head and neck should be included in the differential diagnosis of a pediatric facial mass. Balancing the appropriate degree of diagnostic intervention and treatment is essential in ensuring the best possible outcome with the least morbidity.