Fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) of a salivary gland tumor reveals EWSR1-ATF1 gene fusion. Which tumor does this molecular finding most specifically diagnose?
- A Mucoepidermoid carcinoma
- B Adenoid cystic carcinoma
- C Hyalinising clear cell carcinoma ✓
- D Secretory carcinoma
Correct answer: C. Hyalinising clear cell carcinoma
Explanation
EWSR1-ATF1 fusion is the defining molecular alteration of hyalinising clear cell carcinoma (HCCC) of salivary glands, a low-grade malignancy recognised in the WHO 5th edition head and neck classification. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma harbours CRTC1/3-MAML2 fusions; adenoid cystic carcinoma shows MYB-NFIB or MYBL1 rearrangements; secretory carcinoma is characterised by ETV6-NTRK3 fusion. Molecular confirmation is decisive when histology is ambiguous.
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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