A 55-year-old patient presents with a painless, slowly growing mass on the side of the face near the jaw. The patient has no significant history of trauma or infection. An ultrasound of the parotid gland is performed, and the mass is suspected to be a tumor. The clinical team needs to determine the most likely type of parotid tumor based on its commonality.
What is the most common type of parotid tumor?
A. Pleomorphic adenocarcinoma
B. Pleomorphic adenoma
C. Warthin tumor
D. Squamous cell carcinoma
E. Basal cell carcinoma
The Correct Answer is: B. Pleomorphic adenoma
Explanation:
– Pleomorphic Adenoma (B): Pleomorphic adenoma, also known as a benign mixed tumor, is the most common type of parotid tumor. It accounts for approximately 60-70% of all parotid gland tumors. It is usually well-circumscribed and presents as a painless, slow-growing mass. Pleomorphic adenomas are composed of a mix of epithelial and mesenchymal tissue.
Explanation of Incorrect Options:
– Pleomorphic Adenocarcinoma (A): Pleomorphic adenocarcinoma is a malignant form of pleomorphic adenoma but is much less common than benign pleomorphic adenoma. It is not the most common parotid tumor.
– Warthin Tumor (C): Warthin tumor, or papillary cystadenoma lymphomatosum, is the second most common parotid gland tumor and is benign. It is less common than pleomorphic adenoma.
– Squamous Cell Carcinoma (D): Squamous cell carcinoma is a malignant tumor that can occur in the parotid gland but is not as common as pleomorphic adenoma or Warthin tumor.
– Basal Cell Carcinoma (E): Basal cell carcinoma typically occurs on the skin and is not commonly associated with the parotid gland. It is not a common tumor of the parotid gland.
In summary, pleomorphic adenoma is the most common type of parotid tumor, making option B the correct answer.