[Mixed tumor (pleomorphic adenoma) of head and neck. Typical and atypical patterns]

Pleomorphic adenoma is a benign growth frequently encountered in major salivary glands, although minor salivary glands sometimes can be affected. In the latter non-specific clinical signs allows only the postoperative diagnosis. Nevertheless the existence of lesser salivary glands outside the oral cavity, and therefore pleomorphic adenomas, justify the specialist's need of its knowledge because of the difficulties arising in differential diagnosis. The AA. present a review of 22 cases in various sites treated in their Department in a 9 year-term.