Which molecular alteration is characteristically associated with mucoepidermoid carcinoma and correlates with low histological grade and better prognosis?
- A t(12;15) creating an ETV6-NTRK3 fusion
- B t(11;19)(q21;p13) creating a CRTC1-MAML2 fusion gene ✓
- C MYB-NFIB gene fusion
- D HRAS codon 12 mutation
Correct answer: B. t(11;19)(q21;p13) creating a CRTC1-MAML2 fusion gene
Explanation
Mucoepidermoid carcinoma harbors a t(11;19)(q21;p13) translocation fusing CRTC1 (formerly MECT1) with MAML2, detectable in roughly half of cases and linked to low grade morphology and favorable outcome. The MYB-NFIB fusion defines adenoid cystic carcinoma, and ETV6-NTRK3 is seen in secretory carcinoma and infantile fibrosarcoma, killing options A and C.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.