Salivary gland-type tumors of the lung a distinct group of uncommon lung tumors

Abstract

Context.-Salivary gland-type tumors (SGTs) of the lung represent a distinct group of lung neoplasms. Pulmonary SGTs often pose diagnostic challenges, especially in small biopsy and cytology samples because of limited sample volume and overlapping morphology among pulmonary SGTs, metastatic SGTs of head and neck origin, and other lung tumors. Objective.-To identify the clinical characteristics, histomorphology, immunophenotypic features, and molecular alterations that are crucial for the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of pulmonary SGTs, especially in small biopsy and cytology specimens. Data Sources.-Literature review and authors' personal practice experience. Conclusions.-An accurate diagnosis of pulmonary SGTs can be achieved by careful evaluation of clinical findings and histomorphology in conjunction with immunohistochemical studies and molecular analysis.