adenoid cystic carcinoma

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Disease Overview

A malignant tumor arising from the epithelial cells. Microscopically, the neoplastic epithelial cells form cylindrical spatial configurations (cribriform or classic type of adenoid cystic carcinoma), cordlike structures (tubular type of adenoid cystic carcinoma), or solid structures (basaloid variant of adenoid cystic carcinoma). Adenoid cystic carcinomas mostly occur in the salivary glands. Other primary sites of involvement include the lacrimal gland, the larynx, and the lungs. Adenoid cystic carcinomas spread along nerve sheaths, resulting in severe pain, and they tend to recur. Lymph node metastases are unusual; hematogenous tumor spread is characteristic.


Synonyms

  • adenocystic carcinoma
  • adenoid cystic cancer
  • adenoid cystic carcinoma
  • cribriform carcinoma
  • cylindroid adenocarcinoma
  • cylindroma

GARD Disease Summary

The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) has information and resources for patients, caregivers, and families that may be helpful before and after diagnosis of this condition. GARD is a program of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

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