Histopathological spectrum of salivary gland neoplasms in a tertiary care center
Dr. Aneesha Asok Kumar, Dr. Rakshitha HB, Dr. Nanda Kishore Alva and Dr. Sharon Roshin Reginald
Introduction: Salivary gland tumors are common neoplasms encountered in the head and neck region. Salivary gland neoplasms have varied histopathological findings with some of the tumors showing morphologic overlap. Majority of these neoplasms are benign in nature. They occur in both major and minor salivary glands. Benign tumors are more common in major salivary glands and malignant tumors generally occur in minor salivary glands. 80% of major salivary gland tumors occur in the parotid gland. Most of the minor salivary gland tumors are located in the palate. Proper diagnosis of malignant tumors with accurate staging is very important in the treatment and management of the patient.
Aims and Objectives: This study was carried out to study the histopathological spectrum of salivary gland neoplasms in a tertiary care center.
Materials and methods: The present study was conducted in the Pathology department of M.S Ramaiah Hospital on the surgically resected salivary gland tumor specimens received for routine histopathological evaluation, from January 2010 to December 2014. A total of 66 cases of salivary gland neoplasms were included in the study.
Results: Out of total 66 cases studied, 38 cases (57%) were benign and 28 cases (43%) were malignant. Most common age group for salivary gland tumor was between 40- 60 years. Among the tumors, female preponderance was seen in all except Warthin tumor. Pleomorphic adenoma was the most common benign tumor and mucoepidermoid carcinoma was the common malignant tumor. Parotid gland was the commonest site for various tumors, notable exception being adenoid cystic carcinoma, which showed predilection for the minor salivary glands. Pleomorphic adenoma was the most common salivary gland tumor representing 76.3% of benign and 43.9% of total salivary gland neoplasms
Conclusion: Due to the varied histopathological findings with some morphologic overlap in salivary gland neoplasms histopathological examination is the mainstay for diagnosis and clinical management. Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common neoplasm of salivary glands.
Benign tumors are more common in major salivary glands and malignant tumors are more common in minor salivary glands.
