Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma explained

Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma
Field:	ENT surgery

Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma (PLGA) is a rare, asymptomatic, slow-growing malignant salivary gland tumor.^[1] It is most commonly found in the palate.^[2]

The name of the tumor derives from the fact that:

• It has a varied microscopic architectural appearance, i.e. it is polymorphous.
• It is non-aggressive when compared to other oral cavity tumors, i.e. it is a low-grade tumor.^[1]
• It forms glands, i.e. it is an adenocarcinoma.

It affects the minor salivary glands in the area between the hard and the soft palate. Male to female ratio is 3:1, and the average age is 56 years.

Histology

PLGAs consist of a monomorphous cell population that has a varied histologic morphology.

Microscopically, its histology can be confused with an adenoid cystic carcinoma and a pleomorphic adenoma.

Treatment

PLGAs are treated with wide local surgical excision and long-term follow-up.^[2] There is a recurrence rate of 14% (Peterson, contemporary of oral and maxillofacial surgery).

Notes and References

1. Arathi N, Bage AM . Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma of parotid gland: a rare occurrence . Indian Journal of Pathology & Microbiology . 52 . 1 . 103–105 . 2009 . 19136798 . 10.4103/0377-4929.44985 . free .
2. Paleri V, Robinson M, Bradley P . Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma of the head and neck . Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery . 16 . 2 . 163–169 . April 2008 . 18327037 . 10.1097/MOO.0b013e3282f70441 . 45814368 .