Pleomorphic Adenoma of a Minor Salivary Gland of the Hard Palate: A Case Report

Abstract

Pleomorphic adenoma affects mostly the parotid gland (85%), submandibular glands (5%), and the minor salivary glands (5%). They are usually referred to as benign mixed tumors because they are composed of both epithelial cells, which are cells from the body's surface, and myoepithelial cells, present inside glands to aid in secretion. An 88-year-old male who had an ulcer for 10 days and a three to four-month-old swelling on his palate arrived in the OPD. On examination, at the intersection of the hard and soft palates, there is a single, well-delineated, nodular exophytic development of small salivary glands left to the median half (most of the pleomorphic adenomas are unilateral). For further and confirmatory diagnosis, fine needle aspiration cytology, immunohistochemistry tests, and radiodiagnosis, i.e., X-rays, were performed which revealed periapical abscess and swelling on palate unassociated with pus discharge. Surgical removal of the swelling and extraction of the root stump was done. The patient was asked to stop smoking strictly. Post-operatively, the patient was given suitable medications.

Pleomorphic adenoma of the submandibular gland: a case report

“…It can also be classified as a mixed tumor since it has both epithelial and mesenchymal components as seen on histology [2]. Majority of pleomorphic adenomas occur in the largest salivary gland, i.e., the parotid (85%), 5% in the submandibular gland, and 10% in sublingual glands and minor salivary glands [3]. Here, we describe a histologically proven case of submandibular gland pleomorphic adenoma and its management, with no recurrence on regular follow up.…”