[Determination of DNA content in salivary gland tumors].

BACKGROUND

DNA content determination is a useful tool in the characterization of different malignant tumors.

AIM

To measure DNA content in cells of salivary gland tumors as adjunct to histological diagnosis, correlating morphologic and biological features of these tumors.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From the archives of the Pathology service of a general hospital, 21 salivary gland tumors, 15 pleomorphic adenomas, 3 mucoepidermoid carcinomas and 3 cystic adenoid carcinomas were selected. DNA content was determined in the histological samples using a flow cytometric DNA analysis.

RESULTS

All pleomorphic adenomas had a normal or diploid DNA content. Fifty percent of malignant tumors had an aneuploid DNA content (1 mucoepidermoid carcinoma and 2 cystic adenoid carcinomas).

CONCLUSIONS

DNA determination may help in the histological diagnosis of salivary gland tumors. The presence of aneuploidy suggests malignity.