Primary intestinal-like adenocarcinoma of major salivary glands: 2 instances of previously undocumented phenotype

Background Primary intestinal-like adenocarcinoma of the major salivary glands has not previously been reported. Methods The clinical and radiological findings of 2 patients with primary submandibular and sublingual tumors are presented. Histopathologic and immunohistochemical examinations of tumor sections were performed. Metastatic workup for distant occult primary was carried out. Results The light-optic and the immunomarkers revealed intestinal-like adenocarcinoma consistent with upper respiratory tract origin. Metastatic workup of both patients was negative for primary gastro-intestinal primary. Conclusion Primary intestinal-like adenocarcinoma can develop in major salivary glands and should be considered in the differential diagnosis.