Carcinosarcoma of the deep lobe of the parotid gland in the parapharyngeal region: A case report

World J Clin Cases. 2023 Nov 6;11(31):7663-7672. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i31.7663.

Abstract

Background: Salivary carcinosarcoma is an extremely rare tumor containing both malignant epithelial and mesenchymal constituents. This article reports a rare case of carcinosarcoma with salivary duct carcinoma and osteosarcoma as the tumor components. The clinicopathological characteristics, treatment, and prognosis are discussed in conjunction with the literature.

Case summary: A 48-year-old man presented with a complaint of a mass in the right parotid region. Osteosarcoma was first considered for assessment by fine-needle aspiration cytology. Physical examination revealed a mass measuring approximately 4 cm × 3.5 cm × 3 cm. The mass, the whole lobe of the right parotid gland, and the right mandible were completely removed during surgery. Postoperative histopathology confirmed carcinosarcoma of the salivary gland.

Conclusion: A definite diagnosis of salivary gland carcinosarcoma can only be obtained after complete surgical resection.

Keywords: Carcinosarcoma; Case report; Clinicopathology; Fluorescence in situ hybridization; Salivary gland tumor.

Publication types

  • Case Reports