Sclerosing variant of mucoepidermoid carcinoma: a diagnostic challenge

Abstract

The sclerosing variant of mucoepidermoid salivary gland carcinoma is extremely rare. It is nearly impossible to diagnose this condition preoperatively. We present a case of a 23-year-old woman with a 1-year history of left parotid enlargement with inconclusive fine-needle aspiration cytology results. MRI showed an irregular parotid mass, and subsequent partial parotidectomy confirmed the diagnosis. We discuss the diagnostic pitfalls of this condition and provide a review of the literature surrounding its pathogenesis and management.

Salivary Gland Neoplasms With a Unique Trabecular Histology and MAML2 Translocation

“…Furthermore, the histologic diversity of MECs has led to the recent acknowledgment of multiple variants, including Warthin-like, spindle cell, sclerosing, mucoacinar, ciliated, and other types. [9][10][11][12][13] Hence, pathologists need to be aware of the diverse morphologic spectrum of MEC and also acknowledge that unveiled variants of MEC present challenges for an accurate and prompt diagnosis.…”

“…For example, Sams and Gnepp 7 emphasized the use of p63 immunostain in differentiating MEC from unusual acinic cell carcinoma with mucin production, and Sivakumar et al 8 also showed the beneficial usage of p63 and p40 in identifying myoepithelial and/or squamous differentiation in the salivary gland tumors. Furthermore, the histologic diversity of MECs has led to the recent acknowledgment of multiple variants, including Warthin-like, spindle cell, sclerosing, mucoacinar, ciliated, and other types 9–13 . Hence, pathologists need to be aware of the diverse morphologic spectrum of MEC and also acknowledge that unveiled variants of MEC present challenges for an accurate and prompt diagnosis.…”