Adenoid cystic carcinoma: An unusual presentation

Abstract

The adenoid cystic carcinoma is a relatively rare epithelial tumor of the major and minor salivary glands, accounting for about 1% of all malignant tumor of the oral and maxillofacial regions. Peak incidence occurs between the 5(th) and 6(th) decades of life. The clinical and pathological findings typical of this tumor include slow growth, peri-neural invasion, multiple local recurrences and distant metastasis. Herein, we report a case of adenoid cystic carcinoma of oropharynx with unusual clinical presentation. The diagnosis of this case and importance of cytology in diagnosing such cases is discussed.

Keywords: Adenoid cystic carcinoma; cribriform pattern; salivary gland malignancy.

Figure 1

Intra oral photograph showing extension of the swelling

Figure 2

Axial CT section showing well defined hypodense cystic mass in right parapharygeal space

Figure 3

Sagittal CT section showing the lesion extending superiorly from nasopharynx inferiorly up to hyoid bone

Figure 4

Photograph showing amber-colored fluid on aspiration

Figure 5

(a): Photomicrograph revealing tumor cells arranged in cribriform pattern (H&E stain, ×40), (b): Photomicrograph showing solid cell nests (H&E stain, ×200)

Figure 6

Intraoperative photograph showing tumor mass mimicking a cystic lesionure

Figure 7

Postoperative photograph after 1 year 6 months