Pleomorphic adenoma of minor salivary glands

Pleomorphic adenoma, a benign tumor often seen in ENT practice, arises either from minor as well from major salivary glands. 5-14% of tumors occur in minor glands. Sixteen cases of minor salivary gland pleomorphic adenomas are studied. Eight of them originate from the oral cavity: 6 from the palate, one from the lower lip and one from the cheek. Two oral adenomas were malignant. In 4 patients tumors occur in the nasal cavity and in two other patients--in the neck. The clinical and pathological features of these patients are presented. Special attention is given to malignant transformation and the rate of recurrence of the tumors.