Adenoid Cystic Tumors

MCQ on Adenoid Cystic Tumor of the Hard Palate
Q) All are true for adenoid cystic tumor of the hard palate except:
Answer: C. Lymph node metastasis

🔍 Explanation:
**Adenoid cystic carcinoma** is a rare tumor arising from the minor salivary glands, with the **palate** being the most common site.
- **Perineural invasion** is common and leads to the spread of the tumor along nerves.
- **Lung metastasis** is also frequent, with distant metastasis occurring via the bloodstream, often affecting the lungs and bones.
- The tumor is **uncapsulated** and infiltrative, which often leads to **local recurrence**.
- **Lymph node metastasis** is **uncommon**, with an incidence that is low.
- Direct extension of the tumor to the base of the skull may lead to severe complications and death.

🧠 Key Point: The most important distinguishing feature of adenoid cystic carcinoma is its tendency for **perineural invasion** and **lung metastasis**, but it rarely metastasizes to the lymph nodes.

📘 Reference: [NCBI Article](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3633292/)

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