Carcinosarcoma of the parotid gland with mucoepidermoid carcinoma component

Carcinosarcoma is a biphasic malignant tumor composed of both carcinomatous and sarcomatous components. First cited in 1951 [1], there have been few cases of this malignant mixed tumor described in the literature. The typical patient presentation is that of an enlarging facial mass in the area of the parotid gland. Systemic symptoms are often absent. Time to initial presentation ranges from months to years. Physical examination findings include swelling and enlargement in the area of the parotid gland, facial nerve deficits, and possible cervical lymphadenopathy. Routine laboratory values (eg, blood counts and electrolytes) usually remain normal, however, nonspecific inflammatory markers (eg, erythrocyte sedimentation rate) may be elevated. Often times the first step in diagnostic evaluation is computed tomography scan with intravenous contrast. Computed tomography of the head/neck can identify malignant features such as poorly defined margins and calcifications. Magnetic resonance imaging is often performed to better evaluate for soft tissue and perineural invasion. It is important to note that these tumors can be mistaken for abscesses on imaging [2]. Ultimately pathological evaluation with immunohistochemical analysis is required to confirm the diagnosis. We present a case of a 70-year-old male who initially presented with a painless neck mass. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of mucoepidermoid carcinoma associated with carcinosarcoma reported in the parotid gland.