Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma of the submandibular gland - Case report

Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common benign salivary tumor; however, malignant transformation and distant metastases can be found in some of the long persisting or recurrent cases. We report a 79-year-old woman with a giant submandibular mass for over 6 years. She came to our hospital because of rapid growth of the tumor accompanied by pain over the previous 6 months. After surgical removal, the pathology revealed a focus of malignant transformation in the pleomorphic adenoma. She was discharged uneventfully, but local recurrence was suspected 2 years later. Pain and rapid growth are the warning symptoms of the pleomorphic adenoma with malignant change. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment. For early detection of recurrence, a long-term regular follow-up is recommended.