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Acinic cell carcinoma presenting as an upper lip mass
J R Kenner1, P M Benson, C Sinha
1Dermatology Service, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC 20307-5001, USA.
Summary
Acinic cell carcinoma (ACC) of minor salivary glands is rare and presents indolent behavior. Histopathology doesn't reliably predict its potential for local recurrence or metastasis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pathology
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- Acinic cell carcinoma (ACC) is a rare salivary gland neoplasm.
- Typically affects the parotid gland, but can occur in minor salivary glands.
Observation:
- Presents a case of ACC in the minor salivary glands.
- Utilized H&E, PAS, iron, mucicarmine stains, and immunohistochemistry (cytokeratin, CEA, S-100, leu-M1).
Findings:
- Histopathology showed papillary cystic, solid, and ductal features with PAS-positive, diastase-resistant mucin.
- Immunohistochemistry confirmed epithelial origin; no mitoses, necrosis, or infiltration observed.
- The tumor was successfully removed via wide local excision.
Implications:
- ACC of minor salivary glands exhibits an indolent clinical course.
- Potential for local recurrence and distant metastasis exists despite favorable histopathology.
- Histopathologic features are not definitive predictors of ACC's biological behavior.