Advances in salivary gland pathology

Glandular Odontogenic Cyst: a Case Report and Literature Review

Background

The glandular odontogenic cyst is now a well-known entity comprising < 0.5% of all odontogenic cysts with a recent review tabulating about 200 cases in the English literature. Glandular odontogenic cyst shows epithelial features that simulate salivary gland or glandular differentiation. The importance of glandular odontogenic cyst relates to the fact that it has a high recurrence rate and shares overlapping histologic features with central mucoepidermoid carcinoma. The purpose of this paper is to describe the clinical, radiological, and histopathological features of a case of glandular odontogenic cyst with the course of treatment and 9-years follow-up, followed by a review of the literature.

Methods

A 63-year-old male was referred for further investigation of a mandibular radiolucency observed by his general dental practitioner. The main complaint was a murmuring sensation in the lower jaw right side. Radiological examination revealed a well-defined, unilocular, radiolucent lesion, involving the right mandible with 17 and 68 mm in mediolaterally and anteroposterior dimension, respectively.

Results

A total enucleation of the cystic lesion and surgical extraction of tooth #46, #47 and #48, was performed under local anaesthesia. Histopathologic examination revealed a glandular odontogenic cyst.

Conclusions

Glandular odontogenic cyst shows no pathognomonic clinico-radiographic characteristics, and therefore in many cases it resembles a wide spectrum of lesions. Diagnosis can be extremely difficult due to histopathological similarities with dentigerous cyst, lateral periodontal cyst and central mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Therefore a careful histopathological examination and a long-term follow-up (preferably seven years) are required to rule out recurrences.

Noteworthy Factors to Decide Therapeutic Strategy for Carcinoma ex Pleomorphic Adenoma of Parotid Gland: A Preliminary Study Statistical Analysis of 22 Cases from Single Institution

Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (CXPA) is a rare malignant salivary gland tumor, and its prognosis is determined by the histological progression beyond the adenoma capsule. However, a preoperative evaluation of the histological progression remains challenging, and there is no consensus regarding treatment strategies for CXPA. Herein, we aimed to predict the histological progression preoperatively and develop an appropriate treatment strategy for CXPA. We retrospectively reviewed 22 patients with parotid gland CXPA recorded at our hospital. The clinicopathological characteristics were assessed, and survival analysis was performed. T3≤ or N+ were common in widely invasive CXPA (WICXPA) (p < 0.05). A tumor diameter > 40 mm and the N+ status were associated with poor prognosis considering overall survival (OS) and locoregional recurrence rate (LRC) (p < 0.05). Patients with facial nerve paralysis exhibited better OS and LRC than those without facial nerve paralysis. More than 90% of patients with WICXPA experienced distant metastases. Meanwhile, there were no cases of recurrence or death due to intracapsular and minimally invasive CXPA. A preoperative advanced T stage or N+ status was suspected as WICXPA. Tumors > 40 mm in size and N+ status necessitate high-intensity local treatment. Facial nerve invasion can be controlled by nerve resection. Postoperative systemic therapy could control distant metastases.

Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor of the Head and Neck: A Potential Diagnostic Pitfall

Primary desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) in the head and neck region is extremely rare. There is limited information about its clinicopathological characteristics, prognosis, and treatment modalities. The purpose of this study is to provide a comprehensive review of DSRCT occurring primarily in the head and neck, to demonstrate its peculiar morphology and immunohistochemical expression, and to address the differential diagnoses. A total of 25 cases were collected after a thorough review of the relevant literature. DSRCT was most frequently reported in the major salivary glands, followed by the eyes. Furthermore, some cases were misinterpreted as poorly differentiated carcinoma, Ewing sarcoma, and olfactory neuroblastoma. Diagnosing DSRCTs in the head and neck can be very challenging due to their rarity in this location, overlapping morphology, and immunohistochemistry. In these cases, following a systemic approach helps to solve diagnostic problems.

Comparison of Diagnostic Reliability of p63 and Smooth Muscle Actin in Salivary Gland Neoplasms

Salivary gland neoplasms pose considerable diagnostic difficulty owing to their diverse histological features in individual lesions and the presence of a number of types and variants & similar histological features with other tumor entities. Myoepithelial and basal cells play a significant role in the pathogenesis of salivary gland neoplasm. p63 and smooth muscle actin are more reliable markers for identifying these cells and not studied much comparing their reliability in the diagnosis of salivary gland neoplasms. Hence, the aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the diagnostic reliability of immunohistochemical markers such as p63 and smooth muscle actin (SMA) in the diagnosis of various benign and malignant salivary gland neoplasms. The study comprises of 18 samples categorized into two groups: Group I comprised 9 cases, of which 4 cases were Pleomorphic adenoma, 2 cases were Myoepithelioma, 2 cases of Basal cell adenoma and 1 case was Warthin's tumor; and Group II consisted of 9cases, of which 3 was Mucoepidermoid carcinoma, 1 cases were Myoepithelial carcinoma and 5 cases were Adenoid cystic carcinoma. The selected cases were subjected to immunohistochemistry (IHC) procedure to assess the expression pattern of p63 and smooth muscle actin. The obtained data was analysed statistically by using Mann-Whitney test. In SMA, strong positivity for epithelial and connective tissue components of benign salivary neoplasm is about 22.2%respectively. In malignant salivary neoplasm, SMA was strongly positive for the epithelial and connective tissue component of about 77.7% and 88.8% cases respectively. The difference in the connective tissue components was found to be statistically significant (U = 24, P = 0.032). P63 was strongly positive for the epithelial and connective tissue component of benign salivary neoplasm of about 33.3% and 11.1% cases respectively.In malignant salivary neoplasm, p63 was strongly positive for the epithelial component of about 66.6% cases and connective tissue is completely negative. Alpha-SMA can be utilized as reliable IHC markers for salivary gland neoplasms due to its diagnostic importance in tumors with myoepithelial origin indicative of the histogenesis of salivary gland tumors and even p63 can be used as specific markers for differentiation of malignant salivary gland tumors.

Practical immunohistochemistry in the classification of salivary gland neoplasms

Diagnosis of salivary gland neoplasms can be challenging for surgical pathologists due to low incidence of tumors as well as overlapping histologic features. On small biopsy, the most important information to be conveyed for clinical management is the distinction between a benign/low grade tumor and a high grade carcinoma. This review will discuss the differential diagnosis of salivary gland tumors based on four broad morphologic patterns: basaloid/tubular/cribriform, (micro)cystic/secretory/mucinous, solid-nested/clear-spindled, and oncocytic/oncocytoid. With the assistance of immunohistochemistry, demonstration of the number of cell types (mainly epithelial versus myoepithelial/basal) can further subclassify tumors within these morphologic categories. Additional tumor-specific immunomarkers are useful in some cases. Underlying tumor-specific genetic anomalies can be of value, however, immunohistochemical correlates are only available for some. When used judiciously, in the correct morphologic context, and with knowledge of their limitations, immunohistochemical stains can aid in differentiating tumors with similar morphology.

Observation Rather than Surgery for Benign Parotid Tumors: Why, When, and How

Surgery is the preferred treatment of benign parotid lesions, but it carries a risk of complications. Therefore, the approach toward the surgery of these lesions should seek to avoid complications. There are no guidelines or recommendations for when not to operate. Integration of comorbidities and other factors shift the scales from surgery toward observation in a small subset of patients presenting with parotid tumors. When observation is chosen, the patient should be followed frequently and cautiously, and the surgeon should be prepared to change strategy to surgical excision if in doubt.

Two sides of the same coin: Insights into the myoepithelial cells in carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma development

The myoepithelial cell seems to play an important role as a tumor suppressor in the development of carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma. Nevertheless, interesting aspects concerning the other side of the coin, i.e., the contribution of the myoepithelial cell to cell proliferation, were brought to light. Here we highlighted the studies in which myoepithelial cells were presented as tumor suppressors and promoters in the context of PA malignant transformation. In conclusion, even if in a paracrine way, divergent signals can alter the suppressor role of the myoepithelial cell and induce it to compose a microenvironment propitious to the tumor progression of the malignant cells. This would cause myoepithelial cells to succumb and malignant epithelial cells to initiate progression beyond the basal membrane.

Risk of high-grade malignancy in parotid gland tumors as classified by the Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology

BACKGROUND

The Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology (Milan System) has previously shown its diagnostic utility by categorizing the seven cytology findings in salivary gland lesions. However, there has been lack of study about the risk of high-grade malignancy in the cytology diagnosis based on the Milan System. Thus, we tried to identify the diagnostic ability of the Milan System for high-grade malignancy and to suggest an improved diagnostic approach for preoperative estimation of high-grade malignancy using the Milan System.

METHODS

A total of 413 patients with parotid gland tumors, who had undergone surgical resection from 2011 to 2015 were included in the present study retrospectively. Cytopathology was reclassified according to the Milan System by two independent reviewers. The outcomes were risk of malignancy and risk of high-grade malignancy. The diagnostic performance of the Milan System category [Malignant] for detecting high-grade malignancy was calculated.

RESULTS

The risk of malignancy was 83.3% and 100% in the Milan System categories [Suspicious for Malignancy] and [Malignant], respectively. Meanwhile, the risk of high-grade malignancy was 16.7% and 55.9% in these two categories. Disease-free survival of patients with high-grade malignancy was significantly worse than those with low- and intermediate-grade malignancy. Union combining the Milan System category [Malignant] with the presence of nodal metastasis suggested high-grade malignancy with an acceptable diagnostic sensitivity (0.889-0.963) and negative predictive value (0.900-0.966).

CONCLUSIONS

The Milan System category [Malignant] with the presence of nodal metastasis suggested parotid gland tumors as high-grade malignancy in a pretreatment setting.

Novel gene fusions in secretory carcinoma of the salivary glands: enlarging the ETV6 family

Secretory carcinoma (SC) of the salivary gland is a low-grade malignancy associated with a well-defined clinical, histologic, immunohistochemical, and cytogenetic signature. Although the t(12;15) (p13;q25) translocation resulting in an ETV6-NTRK3 gene fusion is well documented, advances in molecular profiling in salivary gland tumors have led to the discovery of RET as another ETV6 gene fusion partner in SC. Here, we applied an RNA-based next-generation sequencing (NGS) approach for fusion detection on 14 presumed SC. The cases included 7 SC with classic ETV6-NTRK3 gene fusion and 3 SC harboring ETV6-RET gene fusion. In addition, 2 cases revealed a NCOA4-RET gene fusion and were subsequently reclassified as intraductal carcinomas. One case with an unusual dual-pattern morphology revealed a novel translocation involving ETV6, NTRK3, and MAML3 gene rearrangements. Interestingly, no ETV6-NTRK3 or ETV6-RET SC was ever documented to have this unique dual-pattern morphology or harbor a MAML3 mutation. The remaining case had no detected chromosomal abnormalities. Advances in molecular profiling of SC have led to the discovery of novel fusion partners such as RET and now MAML3. Further molecular characterization of salivary gland neoplasms is needed as these mutations may present alternative therapeutic targets in patients with these tumors.

Sclerosing Polycystic Adenosis of Hard Palate: A Rare Entity in Salivary Glands

Sclerosing polycystic adenosis (SPA) is a rare neoplasm of salivary glands, with a striking resemblance to the benign fibrocystic disease of the breast. The most common site of occurrence is the parotid gland. However, submandibular gland, minor salivary glands, and buccal mucosa may also be affected. It shows a slight female predilection and occurs over a wide age range. The exact nature of the disease is unknown but is postulated to be a neoplasm recently. The treatment is effective by localized surgical excision, and recurrence is rare. To the best of our knowledge, there is only one case report of SPA involving palate. Here, we describe an additional case report of SPA occurring in the palatal region of a 49-year-old male patient.

Adenomatous ductal proliferation/hyperplasia in the parotid gland associated without any other pathological lesions; a report and survey of the literatures

Adenomatous ductal proliferation/hyperplasia (ADP/H) is a rare hyperplastic condition of the salivary gland. It is mostly associated with other salivary gland pathologies such as tumors and inflammations, and is incidentally found in tissue sections during histopathological examinations of those diseases. Herein, we report a case of ADP/H in the parotid gland not associated with any other pathological lesions, and present a review of the literature on this condition. A 60-year-old Japanese female complained of swelling on the left side of parotid region. Clinical examination revealed a swelling on the lower lobe of the left parotid gland. The lesion was firm but non-tender and was not attached to adjacent structures. A clinical diagnosis of benign salivary gland tumor was reached, and surgical excision was performed under general anesthesia. Histopathological examination revealed an intact parotid gland capsule with isomorphic and basaloid cells within scanty cytoplasm. In addition, an admixture of hyperplasia and proliferation of the intercalated ducts, the presence of zymogen granules, the absence of solid nests, and a peripheral palisaded arrangement of the cells were observed. Based on these findings, a diagnosis of ADP/H was confirmed. ADP/H is a non-tumorous lesion; therefore, tumor involvement should be ruled out before the diagnosis is reached.

Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma of the Salivary Glands: Survival and Prognostic Factors

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to establish global survival rates and potential prognostic factors for mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MC) of the salivary glands in patients diagnosed at the Dr. Eduardo Cáceres Graziani National Institute for Neoplastic Diseases (INEN), Lima, Peru, between 2002 and 2012.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was an observational, analytical and longitudinal (information reconstructed in time) retrospective cohort study. Data were obtained from clinical records and used to determine the overall survival (OS) rate at 2 and 5 years, and the individual percentage survival for each prognostic factor using the actuarial technique. We also performed univariate analysis for each possible prognostic factor using log-rank analysis, and multivariate analysis using Cox's regression model. The study was approved by the institutional review board at Dr. Eduardo Caceres Graziani INEN and conducted in accordance with the 1964 Declaration of Helsinki. For this type of study formal consent was not required.

RESULTS

The OS rate of the 51 patients enrolled in the study was 81 % at 2 years and 78 % at 5 years. In the multivariate analysis, the equation that best explained the survival result contained the variable, clinical stage (p = 0.063).

CONCLUSIONS

The results revealed the importance of clinical stage regarding the survival of patients with a primary diagnosis of MC of the salivary glands.

Epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma with high-grade transformation of parotid gland: A case report and literature review

RATIONALE

Epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma (EMC) is regarded as a rare low-grade malignant tumor of the salivary gland, accounting for 0.4% to 1% of all salivary gland tumors. However, epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma with high-grade transformation (EMC with HGT) is extremely rare, therefore it is easily to be inappropriately diagnosed and treated. Herein, we report an unusual case of EMC with HGT involving the parotid gland and discuss the clinical features and histological characteristic of EMC with HGT, in order to remind the doctors to take appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 77-year-old female sought for treatment in our hospital due to pain mass in the left parotid gland for 6 months with rapid growth recently.

DIAGNOSES

EMC with HGT was confirmed by final pathology, and then the result showed there were 2 distinctly different areas in the tumor, including the typical EMC component and intensive spindle cells component.

INTERVENTIONS

The extensive resection surgery was performed.

OUTCOMES

The patient was uneventful after surgery and no recurrence or metastasis has been observed after follow-up of 4 years.

LESSONS

A review of literature suggested that EMC with HGT patients trend to be more aged, more aggressive and poorer prognosis than typical EMC patients. In order to avoid misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment, it is necessary to accurately recognize the differences between the EMC with HGT and typical EMC.

Genetic alterations in salivary gland cancers

Salivary gland cancers are an incredibly heterogeneous group of tumors that include 24 histologically distinct tumor types. The use of new genetic methods has paved the way for promising advancements in our understanding of the molecular biology underlying each type of tumor. The objective of this review was to highlight common oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, and cytogenetic and epigenetic changes associated with the most common tumor types: mucoepidermoid carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma, salivary duct carcinoma, mammary analogue secretory carcinoma, hyalinizing clear cell carcinoma, carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma, and acinic cell carcinoma. Recent insights into the pathogenesis of each cancer subtype have helped better define and classify these tumors. Further research in salivary gland cancers should focus on determining the key genes involved in the tumorigenesis of each distinct malignancy and identifying individualized chemotherapies directed at these targets. Cancer 2016;122:1822-31. © 2016 American Cancer Society.

Usefulness of translocation-associated immunohistochemical stains in the fine-needle aspiration diagnosis of salivary gland neoplasms

BACKGROUND

Fine-needle aspiration diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma (PA) and adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is challenging due to cytologic overlap with one another and with other salivary gland tumors having prominent epithelial and myoepithelial components. Recognition of characteristic chromosomal aberrations in several salivary gland tumors, including PA and ACC, has the potential to resolve diagnostic uncertainty, but molecular diagnostics are not routinely available. To leverage these molecular alterations, the authors examined a panel of commercially available immunostains directed at commonly overexpressed proteins in translocation-associated PA (PLAG1 and HMGA2) and ACC (MYB) to assess their diagnostic usefulness.

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry was performed on cell block samples from 74 patients, including 11 ACC specimens and 31 PA specimens with antibodies to MYB, PLAG1, and HMGA2 as well as KIT (previously considered useful in the diagnosis of ACC).

RESULTS

ACCs demonstrated significantly greater staining for KIT compared with non-ACCs, while PAs had significantly greater staining for PLAG1 than non-PAs. MYB trended toward significance for ACC (P=.097) and HMGA2 trended toward significance for PA (P=.094). No ACC exhibited positive staining for PLAG1 or HMGA2. Only 12% of PAs were found to be positive for MYB or KIT. Combined positivity for MYB and KIT with negative PLAG1 and HMGA2 demonstrated a specificity and positive predictive value of 1.0 for ACC, whereas a positive PLAG1 or HMGA2 stain with negative MYB and KIT stains showed a sensitivity of 0.75, a specificity of 0.96, and a positive predictive value of 0.95 for PAs.

CONCLUSIONS

An immunohistochemical panel of MYB, KIT, PLAG1, and HMGA2 on fine-needle aspiration cell blocks is useful in distinguishing ACCs and PAs from each other and other salivary gland neoplasms. Cancer Cytopathol 2016;124:397-405. © 2016 American Cancer Society.

Salivary acinic cell carcinoma: reappraisal and update

Epidemiologic and clinicopathologic features, therapeutic strategies, and prognosis for acinic cell carcinoma of the major and minor salivary glands are critically reviewed. We explore histopathologic, histochemical, electron microscopic and immunohistochemical aspects and discuss histologic grading, histogenesis, animal models, and genetic events. In the context of possible diagnostic difficulties, the relationship to mammary analog secretory carcinoma is probed and a classification is suggested. Areas of controversy or uncertainty, which may benefit from further investigations, are also highlighted.

Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma originating from ectopic salivary gland in the neck region: case report

Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (CEPA) is the malignant salivary gland tumor originating from primary (de novo) or recurrent pleomorphic adenoma. Although parotid gland is the most common site, it can also be seen in submandibular gland or minor salivary glands. It can be seen rarely in head and neck region, such as oral cavity, trachea, nasal cavity and lacrimal gland. Although pleomorphic adenoma cases originating from ectopic salivary gland tissue in the neck region are present in the English literature, there is no published pleomorphic adenoma ex carcinoma case. In this case report we presented a CEPA as a 7.5 cm long neck mass in a 72-year-old woman originating from the submandibular region apart from submandibular gland. Difficulties in diagnosis and way to appropriate treatment are discussed with current literature.

EZH2 is a sensitive marker of malignancy in salivary gland tumors

BACKGROUND

The immunohistochemical detection of Enhancer of zeste homologue 2 (EZH2) proved to be a useful tool to recognize the malignant nature of tumors in a wide variety of neoplasms. The histological diagnostics of salivary gland tumors is a challenging task, and a reliable marker of malignancy would be extremely helpful.

METHODS

EZH2 expression was investigated in 54 malignant and 40 benign salivary gland tumors of various histological types by standard immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

The majority (n = 52) of the malignant tumors stained positively, while all the investigated benign tumors were negative for EZH2.

CONCLUSIONS

EZH2 expression in salivary gland tumors, similarly to the tumors of other organs is not characteristic for any tumor type, but is a solid marker of the malignant nature of the tumors.

Functional Histology of Salivary Gland Pleomorphic Adenoma: An Appraisal

The complex microstructure of salivary gland pleomorphic adenoma is examined in relation to function. Events related to secretion of macromolecules and absorption, responses to the altered microenvironment and controversies concerning epithelial-mesenchymal transition versus modified myoepithelial differentiation are explored. Their effects on tumor cell phenotypes and arrangements are emphasized. Heterotopic differentiation and attempts at organogenesis are also considered. The approach allows interpreting microstructure independently of histogenetic perceptions, envisaging the tumor cells as a continuum, endorsing luminal structures as the principal components, and defining pleomorphic adenoma as a benign epithelial tumour characterized by variable epithelial-mesenchymal transition, secretion/differentiation and metaplasia.

A Rare Case of Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma ex Pleomorphic Adenoma arising in Minor Salivary Gland: Histopathological and Immunohistochemical Analysis

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (MCxPA) is a rare salivary gland tumor predominantly found in major salivary glands. A case of MCxPA involving the soft tissue and bone of the retromolar region of a 26-year-old man is presented. The histopathological features revealed a neoplasm with predominance of pleomorphic adenoma (PA) elements, and presence of mucoepidermoid carcinoma malignant epithelial cells in several areas. Histochemical and immunohistochemical studies were positive for periodic acid Schiff, alcian blue, cytokeratins 7, 13, 14, and 19, Bcl-2, c-erbB-2, FGF-2 and maspin in the malignant areas. The patient underwent a partial resection of the left side of the mandible with neck dissection and MCxPA diagnosis was confirmed.

An extremely rare salivary gland tumor: intraductal carcinoma of the buccal mucosa

Intraductal carcinoma of the salivary gland is a rare, indolent neoplasm characterized by intraductal malignant cell proliferation but lacking invasiveness, in contrast to conventional salivary duct carcinoma, a clinically aggressive neoplasm with invasive characteristics. The tumor affects the major salivary glands much more frequently than the minor salivary glands. This report describes an extremely rare intraductal carcinoma arising from the buccal mucosa in a 61-year-old man who presented with a painless mass in the left buccal mucosa, which he had had for 1 month. A biopsy of the tumor indicated it was most likely an adenocarcinoma, but accurate preoperative diagnosis was difficult. The tumor was completely removed, along with sufficient margins. Histological examination revealed that the lesion was composed of proliferating epithelial cells surrounded by an intact myoepithelial layer, with no evidence of invasion. The final diagnosis was intraductal carcinoma of the salivary gland. No recurrence has been observed for over 3 years. In conclusion, the difficulty in preoperatively diagnosing this rare entity suggests that complete surgical excision with sufficient margins remains the best treatment option.

Keratocystoma of the parotid gland: a case report and review of previous publications

Keratocystoma is a rare benign tumour of the salivary glands. We report a patient who presented with a mass in the left parotid gland that was treated by subtotal parotidectomy and he was free of recurrence seven years later. After histological and immunohistochemical examinations we identified a keratocystoma.

Primary epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma of the lung: A case report demonstrating high-grade transformation-like changes

Primary salivary gland-type tumors of the lung are rare; among them, epithelial-myoepithelial carcinomas (EMC) represent a minor histological subtype. The present case documents an EMC that occluded the B8 segment of the left lung in a 72-year-old woman. Macroscopically, the tumor was well-demarcated; however, microscopic examination demonstrated that it had infiltrated the lung parenchyma. The majority of the tumor mass was composed of a myoepithelial overgrowth in conjunction with conventional bilayered ductal structures comprising epithelial and myoepithelial cells. At the advancing edge of the tumor, the myoepithelial overgrowth was observed to be gradually transitioning to a higher-grade component, which demonstrated venous invasion. The Ki-67 labeling index was reduced compared with high-grade transformation (HGT) of salivary gland EMC; p53 was sparsely observed on immunostaining. However, cyclin D1, which is reported to be overexpressed in certain subtypes of salivary gland carcinomas with HGT, was overexpressed in the higher-grade component of the tumor, indicating a potential HGT initiation. The surgical margin was tumor free, and no recurrence has been observed for 4 months. A thorough follow-up is required considering the HGT-like changes and venous invasion of the tumor. Additional studies are required to elucidate the characteristics of pulmonary EMC, with an emphasis on detecting HGT or HGT-like changes.

Local recurrence of sclerosing mucoepidermoid carcinoma with eosinophilia in the upper lip: a case report

INTRODUCTION

Sclerosing mucoepidermoid carcinoma with eosinophilia is a rare morphological variant of thyroid carcinoma associated with Hashimoto's disease. To date, only three such tumors have been reported in the minor salivary glands. We describe the first case, to the best of our knowledge, of recurrent sclerosing mucoepidermoid carcinoma with eosinophilia in the minor salivary glands of the upper lip.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 61-year-old Japanese man was referred to our hospital with a mass in his median upper lip of four years' duration. An examination of his median upper lip revealed a well-defined tumor measuring 9 × 12 mm in diameter, which was subsequently resected. Three years after the first surgery, the tumor recurred and was resected. Both tumors were confirmed by histopathology to be sclerosing mucoepidermoid carcinoma with eosinophilia. Neither recurrence nor metastasis was observed in three and a half years of follow-up after the second surgery.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that sclerosing mucoepidermoid carcinoma with eosinophilia can originate in the minor salivary glands and may be clinically or pathologically misdiagnosed as other conditions.

Profile of usage of a reference diagnostic service on oral pathology: a 10-year evaluation

BACKGROUND

Despite the professional and academic relevance of the Brazilian oral pathology diagnostic laboratories, no information about their usage profile is available in the English literature. The objective of the present study is to report data about the histopathological and immunohistochemical exams performed in a Brazilian regional reference laboratory of oral pathology, as well as its main users.

METHODS

Information about all histopathological exams performed between 2002 and 2012 was retrieved from the files of the Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Service of the School of Dentistry of Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Data collected included: 1) requestor of exam; 2) diagnosis classification; and 3) immunohistochemical tests. Descriptive statistical analyses were done.

RESULTS

13,522 histopathological exams were performed, mean 1,229/year. The Public Health System of the city of Belo Horizonte was the main requestor of exams (77.13%), followed by private professionals (19.26%), and other cities (2.03%). Most lesions were considered benign (12,599/ 93.17%), with 854 malignant lesions (6.32%). 469 immunohistochemical tests were performed; 324 (69.08%) were from benign diagnosis, and 145 (30.92%) from malignant diagnosis. The most used antibodies were against S100, vimentin, smooth muscle actin, actin muscle specific HHF-35, and pan-cytokeratin AE1/AE3.

CONCLUSIONS

Public Health System is the major user of the diagnostic service on oral pathology in our institution. Most diagnoses were of benign lesions, although many malignant lesions were detected. Immunohistochemistry was particularly important in solving challenging cases.

Fatty Acid binding protein 7 is a molecular marker in adenoid cystic carcinoma of the salivary glands: implications for clinical significance

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is an aggressive malignant neoplasm of the salivary glands. Its diagnosis is difficult due to overlapping features with other salivary tumors. Gene expression analysis may complement traditional diagnostic methods. We searched gene expression patterns in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and in our tumor and normal samples. The biologic and prognostic potential of the identified genes was analyzed. The GEO data set of primary xenografted ACCs revealed that expression of five genes, engrailed homeobox 1 (EN1), fatty acid binding protein 7 (FABP7), hemoglobin epsilon 1, MYB, and versican (VCAN), was dramatically increased. mRNA expression of EN1, FABP7, MYB, and VCAN distinguished our sporadic ACCs from normal tissues and benign tumors. FABP7 expression appeared to be regulated differently from EN1 and MYB and was crossly correlated with poor prognosis in our ACC cohort. Immunohistochemistry showed that FABP7 protein was predominantly expressed in the nucleus of myoepithelial cells of both tubular and cribriform subtypes. In contrast, in the solid subtype, which is often associated with a lower survival rate, FABP7 protein was uniformly expressed in cancerous cells. One case with cribriform architecture and the highest level of FABP7 mRNA showed strong FABP7 staining in both duct-type epithelial and myoepithelial cells, suggesting that diffuse expression of FABP7 protein might be related to aggressive tumor behavior and poor prognosis. We propose FABP7 as a novel biomarker in ACC. The molecule may be useful in diagnosis and for identifying more effective therapies targeting this protein or upstream molecules that regulate it.

Maspin as a tumour suppressor in salivary gland tumour

Maspin is a protein that belongs to serin protease inhibitor (serpin) superfamily. The purpose of this study was to review the literature concerning the expression of maspin in salivary gland tumours. A literature search was done using MEDLINE, accessed via the National Library of Medicine PubMed interface. Statistical analysis was not done because only seven studies were available in literature, the collected data were different and the results could not be compared. Expression of maspin was down regulated in more aggressive salivary gland tumours. Maspin may function as a tumour suppressor in salivary gland tumours.

Salivary mucoepidermoid carcinoma revisited

Clinicopathological features, prognosis and therapeutic strategies for mucoepidermoid carcinoma originating in salivary and salivary-type glands of the head and neck are reviewed. We emphasise histopathological aspects, appraise the value of histochemistry, electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry and cytophotometry, and discuss histogenesis and characteristic gene translocations. We additionally consider possible diagnostic difficulties, problems related to histological grading and accuracy of existing literature, and areas of controversy or uncertainty which may benefit from further investigations.

Epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma of the hypopharynx: A rare case

Epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma (EMC) is a rare neoplasm, which predominantly arises in the parotid gland. EMC is characterized by two types of cells; myoepithelial and epithelial cells arranged in well-defined tubules. A 48-year-old male with a six-month history of dysphagia presented with a 2-cm-diameter mass in the left posterior wall of the hypopharynx. Histopathological examination revealed that the tumor cells were arranged in duct-like structures with an inner layer of ductal cells and an outer layer of clear cells. Immunohistochemically, the outer layer of clear cells stained positive for calponin, p63 protein, glial fibrillary acidic protein, S-100 protein and smooth muscle actin, which is consistent with a myoepithelial phenotype. The inner layer stained positive for cytokeratin and cytokeratin-7, which is consistent with an epithelial phenotype. The tumor was excised and no recurrence or metastasis was found 27 months following surgery. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of EMC described that has arisen from the hypopharynx.

Taxonomy of salivary gland neoplasm

Classification of neoplasms of any organ should be predicted on the patterns of differentiation that reflect the organization and cell types of the parental tissue. The ability to classify a neoplasm instills confidence in its predicted biologic behavior and the selection of treatment. There has not been a single universally used classification system for salivary gland tumor. Histogenetic and morphogenetic concepts and the developing information on various molecular parameters will have significant influence on the classification of salivary glands tumors. In this article we would highlight the histogenetic and morphogenetic concepts in salivary gland neoplasms and elaborate on the taxonomic system of classification of salivary gland neoplasms.

Copy number increase of ACTN4 is a prognostic indicator in salivary gland carcinoma

Copy number increase (CNI) of ACTN4 has been associated with poor prognosis and metastatic phenotypes in various human carcinomas. To identify a novel prognostic factor for salivary gland carcinoma, we investigated the copy number of ACTN4. We evaluated DNA copy number of ACTN4 in 58 patients with salivary gland carcinoma by using fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). CNI of ACTN4 was recognized in 14 of 58 patients (24.1%) with salivary gland carcinoma. The cases with CNI of ACTN4 were closely associated with histological grade (P = 0.047) and vascular invasion (P = 0.033). The patients with CNI of ACTN4 had a significantly worse prognosis than the patients with normal copy number of ACTN4 (P = 0.0005 log-rank test). Univariate analysis by the Cox proportional hazards model showed that histological grade, vascular invasion, and CNI of ACTN4 were independent risk factors for cancer death. Vascular invasion (hazard ratio [HR]: 7.46; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.98–28.06) and CNI of ACTN4 (HR: 3.23; 95% CI: 1.08–9.68) remained as risk factors for cancer death in multivariate analysis. Thus, CNI of ACTN4 is a novel indicator for an unfavorable outcome in patients with salivary gland carcinoma.

Prognostic factors in primary salivary gland mucoepidermoid carcinoma: an analysis of 376 cases in an Eastern Chinese population

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is an infrequent malignant neoplasm that originates most commonly in the salivary glands. The present study aimed to provide new information on prognostic factors in patients with salivary gland MEC. A retrospective analysis of the medical records of patients diagnosed with primary salivary gland MEC between 2003 and 2010 was conducted. The incidence of MEC in the minor salivary glands (62.2%) was almost twice that in the major salivary glands (37.8%). The most frequently affected sites were the parotid gland and palate. Lymph node metastasis was reported more frequently in male than female patients (P = 0.02), in high-grade than low/intermediate grade lesions (P < 0.001), and in lesions involving the submandibular gland (P < 0.001). The disease-free survival (DFS) at 5 years was 80.47%, with rates of 98.0%, 86.5%, and 38.5% for low-, intermediate-, and high-grade tumours, respectively. Among various clinicopathological factors, the only independent prognostic factor was histological grade (P < 0.001). Primary tumour site and histological grade are two important factors affecting cervical lymph node metastasis. Histological grade is the only independent factor affecting survival beyond tumor lymph node metastasis (TNM) staging in salivary gland MEC. Further advances in therapy are needed to improve the outcomes for patients with high-grade lesions.

Lymphadenoma of the salivary gland: Report of 10 cases

Lymphadenoma of the salivary gland is rare, and the typical characteristics of lymphadenoma remain poorly understood. The aim of this study was to analyze the experience of a single institution in the clinical diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of this type of tumor of the salivary gland. All cases of lymphadenoma diagnosed at the institution between 1996 and 2012 were analyzed. The clinical information (including age, gender and tumor location, process of tumor development, imaging data, surgical treatment and follow-up information) and pathological features were evaluated. All tumors occurred in the parotid glands; three cases were sebaceous lymphadenoma (two male and one female) and seven were non-sebaceous lymphadenoma (three male and four female). The average ages of the patients were 68.3 and 42.4 years for the sebaceous and non-sebaceous groups, respectively. The majority of cases (90%) were diagnosed as pleomorphic adenoma or adenolymphoma prior to surgery, but were confirmed as lymphadenoma by pathological analysis following surgery. During the follow-up period, which ranged between 3 and 36 months with a mean of 30 months, no recurrence of the lesion was identified and the quality of life was good for each patient. In conclusion, the diagnosis of salivary gland lymphadenoma should be based on the clinical and, in particular, the pathological manifestations of the disease. Immunohistochemistry is considered as a practical and helpful adjuvant method of the diagnosis for this type of tumor. Complete surgical resection is the first choice of treatment. Further exploration of the histological origin of lymphadenoma of the salivary gland is necessary due to the insufficient number of reported cases.

The wonderful colors of the hematoxylin-eosin stain in diagnostic surgical pathology

The hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) stain has stood the test of time as the standard stain for histologic examination of human tissues. This simple dye combination is capable of highlighting the fine structures of cells and tissues. Most cellular organelles and extracellular matrix are eosinophilic, while the nucleus, rough endoplasmic reticulum, and ribosomes are basophilic. This review discusses the spectrum, intensity, and texture of colors observed in H&E-stained slides to illustrate their value in surgical pathology diagnosis. Changes in color of the nuclei occur in the presence of nuclear pseudoinclusions (such as papillary thyroid carcinoma) or inclusions (such as viral infection, surfactant, immunoglobulin, and biotin). The color of the cytoplasm of spindly cells can provide clues to their nature, such as basophilic (fibroblast), eosinophilic (smooth muscle and others), and amphophilic (myofibroblast). Eosinophilic globules have diagnostic value for sclerosing polycystic adenosis of salivary gland, low-grade B-cell lymphoma, solid pseudopapillary tumor of pancreas, and inclusion body fibromatosis. Eosinophilic granules are characteristic of granular cells (lysosome-rich), oncocytic cells (mitochondria-rich), and cells with secretory products (including neuroendocrine cells). Eosinophilic crystals can be diagnostic of lymphoma/plasmacytoma and crystal-storing histiocytosis. Basophilic granules or inclusions are diagnostic of acinic cell carcinoma and malakoplakia (Michaelis-Gutmann bodies). Yellow or brown inclusions are characteristic of hyalinizing trabecular adenoma of thyroid (yellow bodies), brown bowel syndrome, and malignant melanoma. Extracellular eosinophilic deposits can be produced by many conditions, but amyloid and monoclonal immunoglobulin deposition disease are important considerations. Extracellular basophilic deposits may be seen in small cell carcinoma and systemic lupus erythematosus, but they differ in that the former is blue (nuclear material) while the latter is purple (nuclear material plus immunoglobulin).

Salivary duct carcinoma of the parotid gland: is adjuvant HER-2-targeted therapy required?

PURPOSE

Salivary duct carcinoma (SDC) of the parotid gland is a highly aggressive and uncommon tumor. Overexpression of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) is characteristic of SDC. HER-2 overexpression is considered a poor prognostic marker for SDC, and anti-HER-2 therapy has been suggested as a therapeutic option.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two patients with SDC were analyzed for HER-2 overexpression and gene amplification using immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization.

RESULTS

In 1 patient, no expression of HER-2 was found. In the other patient, HER-2 was demonstrated. The patient with HER-2 overexpression had a worse prognosis, and trastuzumab proved to be an effective treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The present results have also suggested that HER-2 overexpression is associated with a poor prognosis. Therefore, HER-2 status should be evaluated at least in the presence of advanced SDC, and targeted therapy should be considered in the adjuvant setting.

New diagnostic markers in salivary gland tumors

Parotid gland tumors are a rare and heterogeneous entity. Molecular markers are sparse. The aim of the study was to identify new diagnostic markers in benign and malignant salivary tumors. A tissue microarray was constructed with 158 tumor samples. Expression of 21 tumor antigens involved in tumor cell survival and known for prognostic potential was assessed immunohistochemically in all parotid gland samples. CEA, Cox-1, Cox-2, Sigma, beta-Catenin, WISP-1 and PDGF-beta were differently regulated in benign and malignant parotid tumors. Subsequently, these seven proteins entered the step-wise logistic regression analysis. As a second step, we defined a score for differentiating benign versus malignant parotid lesions: 4*CEA+15*Cox-1+4*Cox-2+4*Sigma+3*PDGF-beta+10*beta-Catenin+14*Wisp1. Sensitivity and specificity of 94 and 83% were reached. Besides routine hematoxylin and eosin staining, definition of new diagnostic markers and subsequently a new diagnostic score are an attempt to create an additional tool for the diagnosis of parotid gland tumors.

Salivary gland lymphoproliferative disorders: a Canadian tertiary center experience

Salivary gland lymphoproliferative disorders (SGLD) are very rare tumors and clinicopathological data is sparse. In a Canadian series of 30 cases, extracted from the surgical pathology files of The Ottawa Hospital between 1990 and 2010, a clinical, histopathological, and immunophenotypic analysis was conducted. Tumors were staged using the Ann Arbor staging and classified using the World Health Organization 2008 classification. There were 15 salivary gland (SG) primary lymphomas with localized disease, predominantly mucosa associated lymphoid tissue type marginal zone lymphoma (MALT-L), but with a significant incidence of low grade follicular lymphoma (FL) and diffuse large B cell phenotype as well. There were 7 systemic SG lymphomas and 5 patients were diagnosed with lymphoproliferative disorders originating from intra-parotid lymph nodes. Finally, the remaining 3 cases represented reactive sialadenitis. A literature review was conducted and our primary lymphoma group was compared to those from other countries. SGLDs are predominantly B cell lymphomas that develop in older adults. Primary tumors, which have MALT-L and low grade FL characteristics, have a favorable survival, however MALT-L have a high rate of relapse. A minority of SG lesions are excised secondary to lymphomas that definitely arose from intra-parotid lymph nodes.