A Diagnostically Challenging Parotid Gland Tumor With Hybrid Features

Early human evidence such as case series or small samples is exploring possible benefits.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Salivary gland tumors are relatively uncommon with most being benign. When diagnosed the most common benign and malignant tumors are pleomorphic adenoma and mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC), respectively. However, not uncommonly, it is difficult to differentiate between the histopathological entities, leading to a diagnostic dilemma that can impact a patient's treatment and prognosis. A 24-year-old woman presented with a three-year history of asymptomatic left-sided facial swelling. She denied any prior history of head and neck radiation. There was no history of alcohol consumption or smoking exposure and there was no personal or family history of head and neck cancers. Additionally, she did not have any known occupational or environmental exposures. Due to the chronicity and painless nature of this facial mass, our patient did not pursue evaluation initially. Subsequently, she experienced an increase in size and pain for a few months exacerbated by swallowing. She had no other symptoms. On physical examination, a 3 x 3 cm left parotid gland mass was noted. There was no associated head or neck lymphadenopathy and compression of the left facial mass did not elicit secretions from the opening of Stensen's duct. Due to the rapid increase in size, she was sent for CT neck/soft tissue with contrast which confirmed a 3.56 x 2.67 cm solid nodule within the superficial portion of the lef

Evidence level

Early human evidence such as case series or small samples is exploring possible benefits.

Browse all related research

Filter the research library by this study's title keywords, author, or publication year.