Adenosquamous carcinoma: Histogenetic and molecular insight with a report of a case

Abstract

Adenosquamous carcinoma showing distinct squamous and glandular components histologically is a highly aggressive, malignant tumor with rare occurrence in the oral cavity. Few studies have suggested that the cases have shown aggressive course with a high tendency toward metastasis compared to squamous cell carcinoma or even high grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma. It is a controversial tumor with respect to its histogenetic origin. In this review, we have addressed the debate on histogenesis of this malignancy, the molecular events that are responsible for the glandular differentiation, diagnostic criteria along with a case report.