[True malignant mixed tumor of the parotid gland (carcinosarcoma)]

True malignant mixed tumor (carcinosarcoma) is a rare salivary gland tumor. In contrast to malignant mixed tumor, which means carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma in true malignant mixed tumor both carcinomatous and sarcomatous features are present in the same tumor. This report presents the case of a 43 year old man with a carcinosarcoma of the right parotid gland. Carcinomatous component was high grade ductal carcinoma. Mesenchymal component showed the features of giant cell type malignant fibrous histiocytoma. The diagnosis was supported by positive staining for cytokeratin in the carcinomatous part and positive vimentin, alpha-1-antitrypsin and CD 68 staining in the sarcomatous part of the tumor. Ultrastructural investigation confirmed the diagnosis. Multinucleated osteoclast type giant cells are probably of reactive origin.