Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma
| Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma | |
|---|---|
ENT surgery |
Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma (PLGA) is a rare, asymptomatic, slow-growing
The name of the tumor derives from the fact that:
- It has a varied microscopic architectural appearance, i.e. it is polymorphous.
- It is non-aggressive when compared to other oral cavity tumors, i.e. it is a low-grade tumor.[1]
- It forms glands, i.e. it is an adenocarcinoma.
It affects the minor salivary glands in the area between the hard and the soft palate. Male to female ratio is 3:1, and the average age is 56 years.
Histology
PLGAs consist of a monomorphous cell population that has a varied histologic morphology.
Microscopically, its histology can be confused with an adenoid cystic carcinoma and a pleomorphic adenoma.
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Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma. H&E stain. -
Micrograph of a polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma. H&E stain.
Treatment
PLGAs are treated with wide local surgical excision and long-term follow-up.[2] There is a recurrence rate of 14% (Peterson, contemporary of oral and maxillofacial surgery).
References
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