Clear cell carcinoma of minor salivary glands

Abstract

Two cases of carcinoma of the minor salivary glands are presented in which most cells had clear cytoplasm. Both patients had clinical histories in excess of 10 years and, in the one case with adequate follow-up, no recurrence had occurred after a further 11 years. Both tumours were locally invasive. The clear cells contained small amounts of glycogen, but no intracytoplasmic mucin. Immunohistochemical and ultrastructural studies showed epithelial features, with no evidence of myoepithelial differentiation. These tumours were very similar to the small number of previously reported cases, which were all considered to be low-grade carcinomas. Amongst the differential diagnoses, the most important is metastatic clear cell carcinoma of the kidney and this can only be confidently excluded clinically or by the use of imaging techniques. In summary, we consider intraoral clear cell carcinoma to be a distinct tumour of low malignant potential.

Hyalinizing Clear Cell Carcinoma of the Oral Cavity and of the Parotid Gland

“…The 10-year survival rate is estimated to be 90% [10]. The literature attests to this longevity with durations varying from 1 month to 15 years [12]. Case 1 of our series spans a period of 15 years from the initial lymph node presentation.…”

Very delayed cervical lymph node metastases from hyalinizing clear cell carcinoma: Report of 2 cases

“…Since it was first described in 1994 as a distinct pathologic entity by Milchgrub et al, HCCC has been considered a malignant but low‐grade salivary gland neoplasm with an indolent clinical course. The duration of symptoms before diagnosis ranges from 1 month up to 15 years . The most common sites for HCCC are the tongue and palate .…”

Salivary Gland Neoplasia: A Review for the Practicing Pathologist

“…Since the initial report of 11 cases, I have identified an additional five cases reported with rare tumors described in the nasopharynx and centrally within jaws (83)(84)(85). At this time, no patients have died from disease but follow-up has been relatively short given the prolonged nature of many salivary gland cancers.…”