"Ossifying" mucoepidermoid carcinoma: A deceptive clinical presentation

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma is the most common salivary gland malignancy, accounting for 27% of all salivary gland cancers. Identified in 1921 and first analyzed in 1945, mucoepidermoid carcinoma has demonstrated a widely diverse histology with several morphologic variants having been described. One rare feature is the formation of intratumoral bone, which has been previously reported once in the English language literature. Though the etiology of these calcifications is still not known, it is believed that this finding is independent of overall disease prognosis. This case report illustrates this unusual feature in a 48-year-old Hispanic woman who initially presented with a floor of mouth swelling. Computed tomography examination subsequently revealed a soft tissue mass with intralesional radiopacities. Despite its relative rarity, it is important for practitioners to be aware of this unique presentation in that it may help to avoid misdiagnosis and delays in treatment.