Metastatic Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of Salivary Glands: Case Reports and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Background Adenoid cystic carcinoma is an uncommon tumor of the salivary gland. Little has been published on the chemotherapy of this neoplasm. Methods The literature on this disease is reviewed, and data from seven unpublished cases are presented. Results Four patients received cyclophosphamide. One responded, and another had pain relief. The literature review did not identify any single drug or combination that might be regarded as the treatment of choice. Conclusions Systematic, multi-institutional studies are required to determine appropriate systemic treatment for metastatic adenoid cystic carcinoma of salivary gland origin.