Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma – Definition, Symptoms, and Treatment

Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma – Definition, Symptoms, and Treatment

Defining Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma

Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma or ACC/AdCC is a very rare form of malignant neoplasm that occurs generally within glandular tissue/secretory glands. It may occur in the breasts, uterus, and more commonly in the upper aerodigestive tract. Most cases of ACC occur within the salivary glands. This is why ACC is often regarded as a common head and neck cancer.

Most cases of adenoid cystic carcinoma are benign although in the rare case that they become malignant there is a 5-10% chance of the cancer cells affecting nearby lymph nodes. In very rare cases bone metastasis and lung metastasis occurs.

Due to the relatively high survival rate and immediate treatment options upon early detection, there have been patients who have lived 30-40 years after being diagnosed with ACC.

Because of the rarity of this type of cancer research is sparse and there are very few medical experts who have experience in treating it. Many patients encounter difficulty in finding a well-trained medical specialist who has sufficient knowledge and experience in ACC.

Risk Factor of ACC

Unfortunately, the direct cause of adenoid cystic carcinoma is undetermined and there is a significant lack of research in this area. Due to this, there is no concrete data regarding what factors could lead to the development or advancement of adenoid cystic carcinoma.

Some indications point out that p53 – a tumor suppressant gene which inhibits tumor growth – is inactive during malignant stages of ACC. How or why this occurs is still in debate within the medical community.

ACC Signs and Symptoms

Since the most common ACC occurs around salivary glands, the most common symptoms are:

• Lumps under the tongue or located in the bottom of the mouth
• Numbness spreading from the palate, upper jaw, tongue, or front face
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Consistent, dull pain
• Facial nerve paralysis
• Nodule underneath the jaw or front of the ear

There may also be painless lesions and masses growing across the face. Advanced ACC may lead to pain and paralysis. Difficulty speaking and breathing may also occur as ACC also affects the upper larynx.

Treatment

Surgical resection is often the main course of treatment for adenoid cystic carcinoma. This is then followed by radiation therapy to prevent local area failure and to ensure that the cancer cells have not spread, preventing re-occurrence.

A small number of patients may receive palliation when the cancer has reached metastasis since there are no specific chemotheraphy options for unresectable adenoid cystic carcinoma cases.

For details of the ENT services, diagnosis, and treatment, please consult HK ENT specialist.

Source:

HK ENT Specialist Ltd.

Hong Kong based ENT clinic centre

For ENT Services, Audiology & Speech Therapy,

Sleep Disordered Breathing Management,

Hearing Aid Prescription & Medical Cosmetic Services

https://www.hkentspecialist.hk

HK ENT Specialist Ltd.

Hong Kong based ENT clinic centre
For ENT Services, Audiology & Speech Therapy,
Sleep Disordered Breathing Management,
Hearing Aid Prescription & Medical Cosmetic Services
https://www.hkentspecialist.hk