A case of epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma of the nasopharynx treated by radiation therapy

Epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma (EMC) is a rare tumor, most commonly arising from the parotid gland. We present the case of an 80-year-old woman who presented with the chief complaint of nasal bleeding and was diagnosed as having EMC of the nasopharynx. Fiberopic endoscopy revealed a mass with erosion on the left side in the posterior wall of the nasopharynx. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a tumorous shadow limited to the nasopharynx, not extending into the surrounding tissue. Histological and immunohistochemical examination of biopsy specimens confirmed the diagnosis. Full-dose radiation therapy was administered. The tumor disappeared completely, and no evidence of recurrence or metastasis has since become apparent. We considered that radiation therapy is one of the valid treatment options for patients with inoperable EMC.