Sebaceous variant mucoepidermoid carcinoma in a pediatric patient: Diagnostic pitfalls and management

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is the most common salivary gland malignancy of childhood. Early diagnosis is essential in determining prognosis and guiding treatment. This can be difficult as it has a spectrum of histological appearances. Here we present the case of a 14-year-old with a high-grade, sebaceous variant. Though initially diagnosed as benign sebaceous adenoma, fine needle aspiration performed for suspected recurrence revealed MEC. After parotidectomy confirmed this finding, a substantial defect remained and reconstruction using an anterolateral thigh free flap was performed. Furthermore, radiation was implemented and thought to have played a role in the successful outcome of this patient.