Psammoma Bodies in a Large Myoepithelioma

Myoepithelioma is a rare benign tumor of the salivary glands, in which the vast majority of neoplastic cells are myoepithelial. A rare microscopic finding in salivary gland tumors, including myoepitheliomas, is the presence of psammoma bodies (PBs), whose etiology and role in the tumors are uncertain. The objective of this study is to describe the unusual histopathologic findings, such as psammomas, of a large myopephelioma on the palate and the prosthetic restorative treatment performed after resection of the tumor. A 52-year-old woman was referred for evaluation of a tumor-like lesion, of smooth surface and normal mucosal color, measuring approximately 5 cm, on the left side hard palate, which had been identified 4 years earlier. The diagnostic hypothesis was a pleomorphic adenoma (PA), and an incisional biopsy was performed. After histopathologic analysis, a PA was suggested, and surgical resection of the tumor was performed. The histopathologic findings were compatible with myoepithelioma showing numerous calcified basophilic structures compatible with PB. Sixteen months after resection of the tumor, a removable maxillary obturator prosthesis was made because of the communication into oral and nasal cavity due from the surgical procedure. The treatment of choice for myoepithelioma is surgical excision with a nonlesional area margin. In the present report, the authors achieve good postoperative results without recurrences. After installation of the prosthesis, the patient had an excellent adaptation and acceptance, thus restoring her function and psychologic condition.