t(3;8) as the sole chromosomal abnormality in a myoepithelial carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma: A putative progression event

Background Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (Ca ex‐PA) is defined as a carcinoma arising from a primary (de novo) or recurrent benign pleomorphic adenoma (PA). Methods We present a parotid myoepithelial carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma in a 38‐year‐old man with a t(3;8)(p21;q13) as the only chromosomal alteration by cytogenetic and spectral karyotypic analysis (SKY). Results The finding of this translocation in a subset of PA and in the present case suggests a critical role for this event in the malignant transformation of PA. Conclusions Collectively, both the cytogenetic and the molecular studies suggest the concept that PA lacking alterations pursue a benign behavior, whereas those with the t(3;8) translocation may progress to carcinoma. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012