Case Report: Adenoid cystic carcinoma of tongue

Abstract

Surgery is the primary treatment approach for head and neck cancers, while radiotherapy is considered for advanced tumors in higher T-stages and as an adjunct therapy for cases with positive histopathological margins. Some authors argue that radiotherapy represents the sole option for managing advanced and unresectable cancers. This report focuses on the impact of concurrent chemoradiotherapy in patients diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the tongue. ACC is a malignant tumor originating from the salivary glands, characterized by slow progression, perineural invasion, and a likelihood of local recurrence. It accounts for approximately 10% to 15% of all head and neck malignancies, primarily affecting the minor salivary glands in the palate. The incidence rate of ACC in the base of the tongue is 8.8%. Our case report involves a patient diagnosed with ACC of the tongue, specifically presenting a lesion on the left side of the base of the tongue. The treatment modality employed was concomitant chemo-radiotherapy, and a follow-up assessment was conducted one month after completing the treatment. The objective of this report is to enhance prognostic outcomes and improve the quality of life for the patient undergoing chemoradiotherapy as a treatment for ACC involving the base of the tongue.