Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma of the accessory salivary glands--a case report

A case of polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma of minor salivary gland is reported. This tumor was first described in two clinical case series in 1983. Before that time most of these neoplasms were diagnosed as benign salivary gland neoplasms (pleomorphic adenomas) or salivary malignant conditions (malignant pleomorphic adenomas, adenoid cystic carcinomas, papillary adenocarcinomas and adenocarcinoma not otherwise stated). This neoplasm, with few exceptions, originates in minor salivary gland tissues of the palates or buccal mucosa. It is characteristically slow to enlarge. Clinical reports show the neoplasm present for many years before diagnosis. The tumor have a variety of morphological patterns, a cytological uniformity and an infiltration into adjacent structures. The treatment is a wide local excision. Recurrences and lymph node metastases are rare.