Liver Resection for Metastasis of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Lacrymal Gland : A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a rare malignant tumor. The first description of the ACC dates back to 1856 by Billroth. The ACC of the lacrimal glands are very rare. They are known for their locally aggressive character. Liver metastases are almost exceptional. We report the case of a patient with hepatic metastasis ACC. After eye enucleation of the primitive lacrimal gland ACC, the patient received external adjuvant radiotherapy. Three years later, she presented an upper abdominal pain. CT scan and MRI showed a liver tumor and the diagnosis of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma was made regarding imaging features. A left hepatectomy was performed; histology concluded to a liver metastasis of ACC. The immediate post-operative course was uneventful and no adjuvant treatment was decided. Thirty four months later, the patient presented with lung metastasis. Liver metastasis of ACC are very rare. Extended liver surgery is recommended especially for isolated liver metastasis with a long free gap between primary tumor and the liver metastasis. Keywords: Adenoid cystic carcinoma, Hepatic metastasis, Lacrymal gland