Myoepithelioma of the head and neck

Myoepithelioma of the head and neck
Classification and external resources
Micrograph of a myoepithelioma. H&E stain.

Myoepithelioma of the head and neck, also myoepithelioma, is a tumour of the head and neck that is usually benign.^[1]

As the name suggests, it consists of myoepithelial cells. Classically, they are found in the parotid gland or palate.^[1]

Diagnosis

Myoepitheliomas are diagnosed from an examination of the tissue by a pathologist.

Pathology

The myoepithelial cells may be spindled, plasmacytoid, eithelioid or clear. Tubules or epithelium are absent, or present in a small amount (<5%) by definition. Tumours with myoepithelial cells and a large amount of tubules are classified as pleomorphic adenomas.

Treatment

Benign myoepithelioma are treated with simple excision.

See also

• Pleomorphic adenoma

Additional images

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  Low mag.

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  High mag.

References

1. ^ ^{a b} Barnes, L.; Appel, BN.; Perez, H.; El-Attar, AM. (Jan 1985). "Myoepithelioma of the head and neck: case report and review.". J Surg Oncol 28 (1): 21-8. PMID 2982059.