Sialadenoma Papilliferum of Hard Palate Mimicking Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report

Abstract

The occurrence of unusual ulcers in the oral cavity has fundamental value regarding oral and systemic diseases and abnormalities, as it can show clinical evidence that differs from other lesions, contributing to the diagnosis process. A 64-year-old female patient reported with a non healing of an oral lesion since two months (seeking clinical treatment for an atypical hard palate ulcer). Her medical record indicated past smoking habits and hypertension. During clinical evaluation, an exophytic ulceration located at the left posterior hard palate, with a rounded form and elevated edges, was observed. An incisional biopsy was performed to confirm the diagnosis. Histopathological complementary exams revealed biphasic papillary projections, extending from the epithelium through the connective tissue, that are considered ductal structures. The final diagnosis was sialadenoma papilliferum, and total surgical excision was performed as a treatment. Follow-up showed no recurrence over 14 months. Sialadenoma papilliferum is a rare benign salivary gland tumour, mostly known for its papillary aspect and categorised as a ductal papilloma. Sialadenoma papilliferum origin is not precisely defined, nor associated with a single cause, given that different investigators pointed to multiple variables to Sialadenoma papilliferum origin. Being one of the rarest salivary gland tumours, SialP’s clinical aspects and its resemblance to other benign salivary gland tumours can lead to a wrong diagnosis if not properly and microscopically analysed, hence the importance of knowing its features.

Keywords

• head and neck neoplasms
• oral ulcer
• salivary glands