Monomorphic adenoma (canalicular type)

Abstract

The canalicular type of monomorphic adenoma is a rare salivary gland tumor that has had infrequent notice in the literature. Twenty-nine cases from the files of the AFIP are analyzed. The tumor presents a unique histologic pattern composed of cords and ducts of uniform epithelium. This entity occurs in an older age group (median 60 years) than the pleomorphic adenoma and has a pronounced proclivity for the upper lip. It is seen with approximately equal frequency in male and female patients, and in this study was found only in Caucasians. The lesion has a benign course and exhibits no tendency for recurrence. This type of monomorphic adenoma should be considered a histopathologic entity with a number of clinical features in common with the more frequently occurring pleomorphic adenoma.