Navigating Parotid Lymphoepithelial Cysts in HIV Patients: A Tale of Two Distinct Scenarios

Abstract

A rare occurrence in HIV-infected individuals is the development of diffuse infiltrative lymphocytic syndrome (DILS), which is marked by a widespread infiltration of CD8+ lymphocytes in body tissues, persistent elevation of CD8+ lymphocyte levels, as well as bilateral parotid swellings and cervical lymphadenopathy. It is distinct due to its suspected autoimmune origin and is found in about 5-10% of people living with HIV. This retrospective analysis involves two patients admitted to our tertiary care rural hospital with complaints of bilateral parotid swellings, a provisional diagnosis of DILS associated with HIV-positive status and lymphoepithelial cysts, their subsequent management, including conservative treatment and surgical excision of one of our patients. Our goal is to contribute to and advance the knowledge of this rare condition.