[Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma of the maxilla simulating an odontogenic cyst].

INTRODUCTION

In 1990, the WHO classified Polymorphous Low Grade Adenocarcinoma as a low-grade malignant tumor of the minor salivary glands. This tumor often originates from the hard or soft palate minor salivary glands. We report the first case revealed as an infected maxillary odontogenic cyst around an impacted tooth.

CASE REPORT: A 50-year-old female presented 20 months ago with a bulging, painful oral mass in the right superior vestibule. The diagnosis was infected odontogenic cyst associated with an impacted canine tooth. A course of oral antibiotics was given and cyst enucleation and tooth extraction were performed 6 days later. Ameloblastoma was suggested on macroscopic findings; nevertheless, the pathologic end diagnosis was Polymorphic Low-Grade Adenocarcinoma of minor salivary gland origin. After negative carcinological screening, wide surgical resection was performed. Postoperative external radiotherapy was applied to the operated area as well as to cervical lymph node areas.

DISCUSSION: Most of the 565 published cases concern a palatine location. Even though wide surgical resection is sufficient, external radiotherapy may be used on a case-by-case basis.