English

Abstract

BACKGROUND : Of all the tissues in the human body, perhaps the salivary glands have the most histologically heterogenous group of tumors and the greatest diversity of morphologic features among their cells and tissues. This diversity combined with the fact that most surgical pathologists have limited opportunity for experience with salivary glands is the primary reason behind the difficulty caused by these diseases for many pathologists. Therefore, present study was undertaken to study the relative incidence and spectrum of histomorphological features of various salivary gland neoplasms. AIMS : The aim of this study was to evaluate the relative frequencies, types, site distribution and the histomorphology of salivary gland neoplasms. MATERIAL AND METHODS : The material for this study comprised of incisional biopsies and resected specimens of salivary gland neoplasms received in the department of pathology, J.J.M.Medical College, Davangere. In cases of parotid gland lesions, superficial parotidectomy and total parotidectomy without neck dissection was done and specimens were sent for histopathological examination. Gross examination and subsequent microscopic examination was done after staining with hematoxylin and eosin. 53 cases diagnosed histopathologically as salivary gland neoplasms were included in this two year prospective study. RESULTS : During the two years of study period 53 salivary gland neoplasms were seen. 38 cases were benign neoplasms and 15 cases were malignant. Among all neoplasms, pleomorphic adenoma was the commonest. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma was the most common malignant neoplasm. The mean age of presentation of all neoplasms was 42.74 years. The male to female ratio was 1:1.2. Most common site of occurrence was parotid gland. No intraparotid lymph nodes were observed. In all the neoplasms studied, typical histomorphological features were seen. Surgical margins were free in all the cases. CONCLUSION : It is concluded that some of our results are in harmony with those of other authors.. On the other hand, some of our results are different from published literature. Further nationwide population based survey is needed to define the epidemiology of salivary gland neoplasms.