Intraductal pseudopodia in pleomorphic adenoma of parotid gland.

Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common salivary gland tumor. Pseudopodia are finger-like projections extending beyond the tumor capsule, seen in pleomorphic adenoma. If not resected completely, these pseudopodia may increase the risk of recurrence after excision of pleomorphic adenoma. While performing a total conservative parotidectomy for the pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland, we encountered tumor in the Stensen's duct. On pathological examination, the tumor was not involving the wall of the duct but was passing through the lumen, like a pseudopod. During parotidectomy, the surgeon should inspect the lumen of parotid duct for the presence of any tumor. Pseudopodia of pleomorphic adenoma may extend into the lumen and if not addressed adequately may lead to recurrence of the tumor.