Pleomorphic adenoma palate: Major tumor in a minor gland

Pleomorphic adenoma (PA) is the most common benign mixed salivary gland neoplasm that accounts for 60% of all benign salivary gland tumors. It has diverse histological presentation and occurs in both major and minor salivary glands. PA of minor salivary gland in the palate is a common entity. We report the case of a 45-year-old female who presented with a painless slow growing swelling of palate over the last 20 years. The mass was extending to oropharynx causing mechanical obstruction of airway. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) depicted an oval-shaped mass occupying oropharynx and displacing the tongue inferiorly. Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) was suggestive of PA. The entire tumor mass was excised along with overlying mucosa. Histopathological examination confirmed diagnosis of PA of minor salivary gland. There has been no recurrence of the lesion since 1 year.