Metastatic neuroendocrine tumors of the parotid gland

OBJECTIVES: To present 2 cases of neuroendocrine tumors of the parotid gland and to review the clinical presentation, histopathologic, and immunohistochemical findings and treatment of these rare tumors. STUDY DESIGN: Case series. METHODS: This study reviews 2 patients who both presented with firm masses in the parotid gland diagnosed as neuroendocrine carcinoma by histopathologic and immunohistochemical examination. The evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment are discussed. RESULTS: Both patients underwent complete tumor extirpation via a total or subtotal parotidectomy. Both patients received postoperative radiation therapy and chemotherapy. CONCLUSIONS: Neuroendocrine tumors of the parotid gland are uncommon lesions; however, they have a favorable prognosis as compared to their pulmonary counterparts with early diagnosis and aggressive treatment. Diagnosis is based on the immunohistochemical characteristics of the tumor. Appropriate treatment includes complete surgical excision with postoperative radiation therapy to the parotid bed with the addition of postoperative chemotherapy in patients suspected to have metastatic disease.