Lymphoepithelial cysts of the salivary glands. Histologic and cytologic features

Fourteen cases of surgically excised lymphoepithelial cysts (13 from the parotid gland and 1 from the submandibular gland) were reviewed for diagnostic histologic features. They showed squamous epithelium-lined cysts within lymph nodes. Lymphocytes, histiocytes, and plasma cells were found in the walls of the cysts. Multinucleated giant cells were present in four cases. The five patients tested for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection were positive, both by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western Blot. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) was performed on five cases (two were confirmed histologically). Diff-Quik-stained smears showed a proteinaceous background and a mixed population of lymphocytes, histiocytes, plasma cells, and metaplastic squamous cells. When the above cytologic findings are present on fine-needle aspiration of a major salivary gland lesion, the diagnosis of lymphoepithelial cyst should be considered.