What is the most likely diagnosis for a child with a minor salivary gland tumor: Pleomorphic adenoma (Pleo), Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (Mucoep), Adenoid cystic carcinoma, or Acinic cell carcinoma?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: March 30, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Minor Salivary Gland Tumor in a Kid

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (b. Mucoep): This is the most common malignant salivary gland tumor in children, making it a likely diagnosis for a minor salivary gland tumor in a kid.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Pleomorphic adenoma (a. Pleo): Although more common in adults, pleomorphic adenoma can occur in children and is a common benign salivary gland tumor.
    • Adenoid cystic carcinoma (c. Adenoid cystic): This is another type of malignant salivary gland tumor that, although more common in adults, can occur in children.
  • Do Not Miss
    • Acinic cell carcinoma (d. Acinic cell): Although less common, acinic cell carcinoma is a malignant tumor that can occur in children and has a relatively good prognosis if caught early, making it crucial not to miss.
    • Rhabdomyosarcoma: This is a malignant tumor of soft tissue that can occur in the head and neck region, including the salivary glands, and is more common in children. It's essential to consider due to its aggressive nature.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Other rare salivary gland tumors: Such as myoepithelial carcinoma, epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma, and others, which are less common in children but should be considered in the differential diagnosis due to their potential presence.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.