Salivary gland carcinosarcoma ex pleomorphic adenoma: a case report with molecular characterization

Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol. 2024 Aug;138(2):301-305. doi: 10.1016/j.oooo.2024.02.030. Epub 2024 Mar 11.

Abstract

True malignant mixed tumors, also known as salivary gland carcinosarcoma (SCS), are uncommon yet highly aggressive lesions associated with a poor prognosis. These tumors exhibit a distinctive biphasic structure characterized by both epithelial and mesenchymal components. Recent research has shown that the majority of SCS cases stem from pre-existing pleomorphic adenomas (PAs), suggesting a stepwise developmental pattern. In this report, we present a case of a 73-year-old female with SCS and describe the clinical, radiographic, and pathologic observations. Notably, the SCS was associated with a residual PA. The SCS displayed a CTNNB1::PLAG1 gene rearrangement, providing a molecular basis for its origin from the PA. Further DNA genomic analysis exposed mutations in BAP1, PER1, and LRPB1. Our findings provide support to the theory that SCS emerges from a pre-existing PA while highlighting the multiple genetic changes that could contribute to malignant transformation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adenoma, Pleomorphic* / diagnostic imaging
  • Adenoma, Pleomorphic* / genetics
  • Adenoma, Pleomorphic* / pathology
  • Aged
  • Carcinosarcoma* / genetics
  • Carcinosarcoma* / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Salivary Gland Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Salivary Gland Neoplasms / genetics
  • Salivary Gland Neoplasms / pathology