Reticular type parotid myoepithelial carcinoma: an intriguing variant and mimicker

Myoepithelial carcinoma, the malignant counterpart of benign myoepithelioma, is one of the rarest salivary gland neoplasms. It is composed almost exclusively of tumour cells with myoepithelial differentiation, characterized by infiltrative growth and potential for metastasis. We herein, report a case of myoepithelial carcinoma in a 50 years old male with reticular morphology. Reticular variant of myoepithelial carcinoma may be mistaken for a variety of benign and malignant epithelial and mesenchymal tumours including mixed tumour (pleomorphic adenoma), adenoid cystic carcinoma, basal cell adenoma and epithelial myoepithelial carcinoma. Complete surgical excision is the mainstay of therapy. The role of radiation therapy and chemotherapy is not yet established. Awareness of this variant is emphasized to prevent misdiagnosis.