Epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma: Retrospective analysis of the case series from a reference center in São Paulo, Brazil.

OBJECTIVE

Given the recent increase in diagnoses in our service, a referral center in São Paulo, this study aims to analyze the case series at this center and compare it with the existing literature. The objective is to comprehend the characteristics and prognosis of this disease and provide insights to enhance its treatment.

METHODS

Confirmed cases of EMC were selected at the Hospital das Clínicas da FMUSP between 2011 and 2021. Fourteen cases were screened and subjected to retrospective analysis of medical records for data collection.

RESULTS

The analysis covered patient and disease characteristics. Of the total, 64.3% were female, with an average age of 71.33 years. The parotid gland was the predominant primary site (92.8%). Concerning staging, there was a significant prevalence in stages III and IVa. Among the cases, 12 underwent surgery, and eight patients received adjuvant therapy.

CONCLUSION

Despite EMC being a low-grade neoplasm, our case series, while aligning with much of the existing literature, revealed a more advanced presentation. This raises questions about whether this aggressiveness is due to late diagnosis or whether the neoplasm is less indolent than presumed.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.