Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the trachea: a clinico-pathological analysis.

Abderrahim Elktaibi,Adil Boudhas,Massine Elhammoumi,Mohamed Oukabli,Adil Arsalane,Fayçal Eloueriachi,Abderrahmanne Al Bouzidi,Elhassane Kabiri

doi:10.11604/pamj.2015.20.240.3953

Abstract

Primary malignant tracheal tumors are not common and adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of trachea is very rare. The diagnosis is often delayed due to the atypical symptoms. We report an extremely rare case of ACC of proximal trachea, in a 55-year-old female who presented with a 12 month history of progressive dyspnea. Laryngoscopy and computed tomography revealed a broad-based polypoidal mass arising from posterior wall of the proximal trachea. Biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of ACC. The patient underwent a complete surgical resection and post operative radiotherapy. Six months follow-up of the patient did not reveal local recurrence or distant metastases. The literature of tracheal ACC is reviewed.

Highlights

Primary tracheal tumors are rare, constitute only 2% of all respiratory tract tumors [1] and representing less than 0.1% of cancer death
We report a case with adenoid cystic carcinoma of the trachea and discuss epidemiology, pathological features, prognostic factors and therapeutic options of this disease
In contrast to tracheal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) that occur in men approximately 90% of the time, primary tracheal Adenoid cystic carcinomas (ACC) is found in men and women with almost equal frequency

Summary

Introduction

Primary tracheal tumors are rare, constitute only 2% of all respiratory tract tumors [1] and representing less than 0.1% of cancer death. Adenoid cystic carcinomas (ACC) are the second most common primary malignant tracheal neoplasms after squamous cell carcinoma [2]. They mostly arise from salivary gland, especially minor salivary glands. Histopathological examination of the surgical specimen confirmed the diagnosis of ACC with negative limits of resection. It showed a cribriform feature, characterized by nests of cells with cylindromatous microcystic spaces. These are filled with hyaline and basophilic mucoid material. Post operative course and bronchoscopic examination were satisfactory six months later

Discussion

Findings

Conclusion