Recurrent Adenoid Cystic CA

Comments:
Adenoid cystic carcinoma has a very high recurrence rate due to its propensity to invade and track along nerves. The recurrence rate depends upon the growth pattern (i.e. histologic grade) and is 59%, 89%, and 100% for Grades 1, 2, and 3 respectively.

The image shows a case of recurrent adenoid cystic carcinoma. It is composed of solid sheets with necrosis and tubular areas. Image courtesy of: Simon Chiosea, MD; Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.