Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma of the tongue: a case report

INTRODUCTION: Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma is a distinct neoplasm of the salivary gland composed of luminal and non-luminal tumor cells admixed in varying proportions. Its resemblance to lobular carcinoma of the breast had led to its earlier nomenclature of 'terminal duct carcinoma'. Most patients present with an asymptomatic mass in the hard palate. In rare cases, the mass can also occur in the tongue. We report an unusual case of polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma at the base of tongue. CASE PRESENTATION: A 47-year-old Asian Caucasian woman presented with a painless swelling at the right lateral border of the tongue with an intact overlying mucosa. There were no other associated complaints. The lesion was excised and subjected to histopathological examination that revealed an interesting and unusual morphology of polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma. CONCLUSION: Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma is a well-defined entity in the minor salivary glands. Its occurrence in the tongue is rare with very few cases reported in the literature. It is a malignant neoplasm with low aggressiveness and it is thus important to identify and treat it accordingly.