Adenoid cystic cancer

Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma (ACC) is a rare form of cancer that primarily affects the salivary glands but can also occur in other parts of the body. It is characterized by slow growth and a high potential for recurrence.

Epidemiology

ACC accounts for approximately 1% of all head and neck malignancies and 10% of all salivary gland tumors. It can occur at any age but is most commonly diagnosed in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60. There is a slight female predominance.

Pathophysiology

The exact cause of ACC is unknown. It is believed to originate from the intercalated duct cells of the salivary glands. The tumor is composed of a mixture of cell types, including myoepithelial and ductal cells. The characteristic feature of ACC is the presence of cribriform, tubular, and solid growth patterns.

Clinical Presentation

The most common symptoms of ACC include a slowly enlarging mass, pain, and nerve involvement leading to facial weakness or numbness. Depending on the location of the tumor, other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, voice changes, or shortness of breath may be present.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of ACC is typically made by biopsy of the tumor. Imaging studies such as CT scan or MRI may be used to determine the extent of the disease.

Treatment

The primary treatment for ACC is surgical removal of the tumor. Radiation therapy is often used in conjunction with surgery. Chemotherapy is typically reserved for cases where the disease has spread to other parts of the body.

Prognosis

The prognosis for ACC is variable. While it is a slow-growing tumor, it has a high rate of recurrence and can spread to other parts of the body. The 5-year survival rate is approximately 60%.

See Also

• Salivary gland
• Cancer
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy