Sclerosing polycystic adenosis of minor salivary glands: report of three cases and review of the literature

Sclerosing polycystic adenosis (SPCA) of the salivary gland is a rarely encountered lesion of uncertain pathogenesis that shares histologic features with sclerosing adenosis and fibrocystic disease of the mammary gland. To date, fewer than 40 cases of SPCA have been reported in the literature; all but one have arisen in the major salivary glands. We report 3 cases of SPCA involving minor salivary glands and discuss the characteristic histopathologic features of SPCA, which include a combination of fibrosis, tubuloacinar proliferation, and cystic change with retention of a somewhat lobular architecture. We also provide a review of contemporary relevant literature. Given that SPCA has been mistaken for malignant salivary gland neoplasia, a familiarity with the entity is critical. Three new cases of SPCA involving minor glands are added to 1 existing case in the literature to raise awareness of the lesion and to reduce the likelihood of misdiagnosis.