A 45-year-old male has a 2 cm mass in the parotid gland. Fine needle aspiration cytology shows features of mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Which of the following is the most common malignant tumor of the parotid gland?
- A Acinic cell carcinoma
- B Adenoid cystic carcinoma
- C Mucoepidermoid carcinoma ✓
- D Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma
Correct answer: C. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma
Explanation
Mucoepidermoid carcinoma is the most common malignant salivary gland tumor overall and specifically the most common malignant tumor of the parotid gland. Adenoid cystic carcinoma is the most common malignant tumor of minor salivary glands and submandibular gland, and is notorious for perineural invasion. Acinic cell carcinoma is predominantly parotid but less common than mucoepidermoid carcinoma.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.