Carcinosarcoma of the parotid gland: report of a case with immunohistochemical findings.

OBJECTIVES

Carcinosarcoma (true malignant mixed tumor) of the parotid gland is an extremely uncommon tumor composed of both carcinomatous and sarcomatous components. An understanding of this manifestation is crucial to guide management and treatment of this disease.

METHODS

A patient who presented with facial nerve weakness and a painful mass of the parotid gland underwent fine needle aspiration, laboratory testing, and computed tomography of the neck that demonstrated a large parotid malignancy. The patient underwent surgical treatment followed by radiotherapy. Histologic and immunohistochemical examination of the specimen was performed.

RESULTS

This report of a slow-growing parotid mass with otalgia and facial nerve weakness was treated with radical parotidectomy, supraomohyoid neck dissection, and cable graft repair of the excised facial nerve, which was completely encircled by tumor. Postoperative radiotherapy was administered. Histologic and immunohistochemical evaluation demonstrated carcinosarcoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Carcinosarcoma is an unusual tumor of the parotid gland. Treatment generally involves surgery with subsequent radiotherapy. Long-term close follow-up is recommended, for this tumor has a high propensity for both local and regional recurrence and metastasis.