Adenocarcinoma arising in a Warthin's tumor

Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma is a well-recognized entity, while, in rare cases carcinomas may arise from the epithelial component of Warthin's tumor. We present a case of adenocarcinoma arising in a Warthin's tumor located in the left parotid gland in a 49-years-old patient. Chest X-ray, laboratory investigation and thyroid scintigraphy were normal. A ultrasonography and computerized axial tomography showed multiple nodules. A fine needle aspiration biopsy showed typical features of Warthin's tumor. The histology showed the presence of a metastatic adenocarcinoma, that was thyroglobulin and calcitonin negative. The patient underwent a total left parotidectomy, was carefully followed-up, and at a 7 years check-up visit no other primary malignant lesion has manifested. © 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.