MCQ Pathology Answer 35

The Correct Answer is A

The pleomorphic adenoma or benign mixed tumor is the most common of all salivary gland neoplasms.

The gross pathologic appearance of a pleomorphic adenoma is a smooth or lobulated, well-encapsulated tumor that is clearly demarcated from the surrounding normal salivary gland.

They are typically solid tumors and may have areas of gelationous myxoid stroma. Cystic degeneration or tumor infarction and necrosis are rarely seen except in large, long-standing lesions.

Microscopically, these tumors are composed of varying proportions of gland-like epithelium and mesenchymal stroma. The epithelial cells may display several different patterns of growth—small nests, solid sheets, ductal structures or anastamosing trabeculae. The stroma is just as variable and may be myxoid, chondroid, fibroid or osteoid. Also on microscopic examination, the incomplete encapsulation and transcapsular growth of tumor pseudopods characteristic of pleomorphic adenoma are demonstrated.

Category: Pathology MCQs