Unusual presentation of nodular fasciitis as a rapidly growing haemorrhagic temporal mass

Nodular fasciitis (NF), also called proliferative or infiltrative fasciitis is considered to be a benign reactive process of the soft tissues (subcutaneous tissue, muscle or fascia) rather than a true neoplasm. Although the extremities are the most common sites, it may arise anywhere in the body. Local excision presents the main treatment. This study presents a case of NF with a unique clinical presentation, an acute subcutaneous temporal hemorrhagic growth. Because temporal NF is more often dermally situated than NF involving other anatomic sites, it may present with superficial ulceration or bleeding and appear clinically unusual. Nodular fasciitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of other benign or malignant tissue masses involving the temporal area. (C) 2011 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery.