Pleomorphic adenoma of the hard palate: a case report

Abstract

Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common benign salivary gland tumor. It is a mixed tumor composed of epithelial and myoepithelial cells arranged in various morphological patterns and is usually demarcated by a fibrous capsule from surrounding tissues. While it commonly affects major salivary glands, its occurrence in minor salivary glands is less frequent. It shows a female predominance (60%) compared to males (40%). We report a case of a 45-year-old male patient, a driver by occupation, with a history of smoking, alcohol intake, and tobacco chewing for 25 years. He presented with a painless swelling over the hard palate for the past 2 years. Clinical examination and investigations led to a provisional diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma of the minor salivary glands of the hard palate. The lesion was treated with wide local excision under local anesthesia. The excised specimen was sent for histopathological examination for definitive diagnosis. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma. The patient had an uneventful postoperative recovery with good healing. The palatal defect was allowed to heal by secondary intention, and satisfactory granulation with complete healing was observed. Pleomorphic adenoma of the minor salivary glands of the hard palate is a relatively rare entity but carries an excellent prognosis when treated with wide local excision. Definitive diagnosis depends on histopathological evaluation. Early diagnosis and adequate surgical management ensure good functional and cosmetic outcomes.