Korean J Otolaryngol-Head Neck Surg.  2004 Jun;47(6):575-579.

Dedifferentiation in Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Neck

• Do NY
• Im TS
• Park SY

Abstract

Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the salivary gland is an indolent tumor with an unfavorable long-term prognosis. Dedifferentiation of adenoid cystic carcinoma, which is associated with an accelerated clinical course, has recently been described. Histologically, the low-grade adenoid cystic carcinoma merge gradually into an extensive dedifferentiated component composed of solid sheets and cords of anaplastic tumor cells with focal gland formation. We experienced dedifferentiation in adenoid cystic carcinoma of the submandibular gland and report it with a review of the literature and immunohistochemical workup to elucidate the likely mechanism of dedifferentiation.

Keyword

Carcinoma; Adenoid cystic; Dedifferentiation; Salivary glands

MeSH Terms

Adenoids*
Carcinoma, Adenoid Cystic*
Neck*
Prognosis
Salivary Glands
Submandibular Gland