A clinicopathological study of 51 cases of adenoid cystic carcinoma in the head and neck region seen over a period of 20 years is presented. The correlation between various histological features and their impact on the results is attempted. Longterm results with respect to loco-regional recurrences, distant metastases and survival with various modalities of therapy are presented. Although this is a small series, radical surgery in keeping with the aim of avoiding undue mutilation, thus preserving the quality of life, followed by a full course of radiotherapy has been the mainstay of treatment and the results here presented justify this approach.
IntroductionAdenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) involves chiefly the major and minor salivary glands. This type of tumour is much more frequent in minor than in major salivary glands (Thackray and Lucas, 1984). It is also found in the mucous glands of the upper respiratory tract, lacrimal gland, breast, pineal gland, vulva, cervix, oesophagus, digestive tract, Cowpers glands and the external auditory meatus.The tumour accounts for 2 to 6 per cent of all parotid gland tumours, 15 per cent of submandibular gland tumours and 30 per cent of minor salivary gland tumours (Batsakis and Regezi, 1979). They are known for their slow growth and late metastases. A long period of observation is therefore necessary for a reliable evaluation of the prognosis. The purpose of this retrospective study has been to review the patients treated by us during the last two decades at this hospital and attempt to correlate the clinical and histopathological factors with prognosis and survival.
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