A Rare Case Report of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Anterior Maxilla in a Young Patient

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the maxilla is a rare malignancy arising from minor salivary glands. The clinical and radiological appearance may be similar to any odontogenic/nonodontogenic pathology. This study aims to report a rare case of primary central ACC of the anterior maxilla.

Case Report: 

A 31-year-old man was referred to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery complaining of swelling and pain in the right anterior maxilla for 3 months. The patient has noticed swelling and pain in this side since about five months before and instead of diagnosing this tumoral lesion, false diagnosis and unsuccessful root canal therapy were considered. A biopsy was performed in the central region and microscopically, the lesion showed tumor cells arranged in sheets in fibrous stroma islands of epithelial cells showing a classical “Swiss cheese” pattern. Based on clinical, radiographic, and CBCT evaluation and positive immunohistochemistry of CD63, and C-Kit confirmed ACC diagnosis. After the diagnosis, the lesion was completely removed by enucleation and curettage performed by the surgeon. Postoperative radiotherapy was performed. Follow-up within 3 years since the initial diagnosis showed no sign of recurrence.

Based on the results of this study, early diagnosis and treatment of ACC can lead to successful treatment and patient survival.