ABSTRACT
[1] To see the morphological patterns of non-neoplastic and neoplastic lesions of salivary glands. [2] To see the frequency of adenoid cystic carcinoma in salivary gland and extra salivary sites. Retrospective and prospective study. This study was conducted at pathology department, Basic Medical Sciences Institute, JPMC Karachi during 2005 to 2008 i.e. over 4 years. Data collection of all the cases of salivary gland lesions including the cases of adenoid cystic carcinoma at extra salivary sites over a 4-years period gland [2005-2008]. Heamotoxylin and eoxin [H and E] stained sections were studied in all cases. Special stains performed in selected cases included PAS, Reticulin and Trichrome. Total of 43 cases were retrieved and evaluated. Out of 43 cases only 2 cases [4.6%] were non-neoplastic i.e acute and chronic sialadenitis. Among the neoplastic lesions, most common benign tumour was pleomorphic adenoma counting 32 cases [74.4%] and one case [2.3%] of monomorphic adenoma. In the malignant tumours there were 3 cases [74.4%] and one case [2.3%] of monomorphic adenoma. In the malignant tumours there were 3 cases [6.9%] of adenoid cystic carcinoma, 3 cases [6.9%] of muco-epidermoid carcinoma and 1 case [2.3%] each of squamous cell carcinoma and acinic cell carcinoma. Total cases of adenoid cystic carcinoma were 6 [14.6%]. 3 of them originated from the salivary glands and 3 were seen at extra salivary sites including one case each in lacrimal gland, vagina and nasal cavity. Benign tumours comprise 76.7% of all salivary gland lesions. Adenoid cystic carcinoma was the most common malignant tumour, also found at extra salivary sites; therefore it should not be overlooked at extra salivary sites