Radiologic features of acinic cell carcinoma in salivary gland

JIA Chuanhai; QU Junchen; DING Qingguo; LU Yongming; JI Yunying

Abstract：Objective To explore the radiographic features of acinic cell carcinoma ( ACC) in salivary gland so as to increase radiologists ' awareness of this rare tumor , facilitating prospective diagnosis .Methods 16 patients with ACC were reviewed ret-rospectively to determine the characteristic radiographic findings .The images were evaluated in relation to the following: shape, border, CT density/MR signal intensity, enhancement pattern, and etc.Results The primary lesions were located in the superfi-cial lobe of the parotid gland (n=14), palate (n=2).According to these lesions' features, four type were found:solid solitary nodule, solid multiple nodules, solitary cystic mass with mural nodule , multiple cystic mass with thick wall sign on CT or MRI . All solid portions included focal heterogeneous CT density /MR signal, which were microcyst, hemorrhage, necrosis or fibrosis on pathologic examination .Except one case , the rest solid portions were remarkably enhanced following contrast administration . Conclusion Radiologic findings of the ACC have some features .Tumor found in female elderly patient , if it is the solitary and cystic mass ( four types ) , especially with the ill-defined border , should be included in the differential diagnosis .