Small Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Salivary Glands of the Palate: Report of a Rare Case and a Review of the Literature

Abstract

Introduction: Small cell neuroendocrine carcinomas (SmCCs) of the salivary glands are rare high grade malignant neoplasms, and the identification of these lesions is often difficult. Histopathological features alone are not sufficient for the diagnosis of SmCCs, and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining is almost always mandatory for confirming the diagnosis. Case Presentation: We report one salivary SmCC case in a female who presented with swelling on the left side of the face. For a distinct diagnosis, histopathological and IHC evaluation was performed. Conclusions: The presentation of these cases can be helpful for the histopathological differential diagnosis of similar tumors