Pleomorphic adenoma of the lacrimal gland: A review with updates on malignant transformation and molecular genetics

Pleomorphic adenoma (benign mixed tumor) is the most common epithelial neoplasm of the lacrimal gland. It is usually a slow growing, well-circumscribed, mass that is identical to its salivary gland counterpart. Patients generally have an excellent prognosis for vision and long-term survival after complete surgical excision. There is a tendency to reoccur, especially if there is an incomplete excision, and rarely, malignant transformation to carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma can occur, which has a much poorer prognosis. The molecular genetics of lacrimal gland pleomorphic adenomas have only recently been studies, but appear to display similar genetic aberration found in the salivary gland counterparts.