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Polymorphous low grade adenocarcinoma

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Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma

Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma, often abbreviated PLGA, is a rare, asymptomatic, slow-growing malignant salivary gland tumor. It is most commonly found in the palate.

Contents

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.
  • 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. There is a recurrence rate of 14% (Peterson, contemporary of oral and maxillofacial surgery).

    Additional reading

  • Kahn, Michael A. Basic Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology. Volume 1. 2001.

    • References

    Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma Wikipedia
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