Acinic cell carcinoma of minor salivary gland origin

Abstract

A rare case of acinic cell carcinoma of minor salivary gland origin is reported and the literature regarding this type of tumor is reviewed. These tumors arise from either an intercalated duct stem cell or the reserve cell of the salivary gland terminal tubule but not from both simultaneously. Rarely these neoplasms arise from more mature acinar cells. It is clear that these tumors behave ominously. The 25 year determinate survival rate is 50 per cent, with a 20 per cent incidence of metastasis. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice. Radiotherapy, especially neutron therapy, has a place in the treatment of this tumor. The role of chemotherapy is not known at this time.