Small cell carcinoma of the submandibular gland

Authors

Keywords:

microcytic carcinoma, small cell carcinoma, submandibular gland

Abstract

Introduction: Primary small cell carcinomas of the salivary glands are uncommon high-grade malignant tumors, especially those affecting the submandibular gland.

Objective: To present a case of primary small cell carcinoma of the submandibular gland.

Clinical case: An 84-year-old male patient presented with an enlarged left submandibular region, which increased in size over a short period. The ultrasound reported a predominantly echogenic image measuring 3,3 x 3,1 cm, with regular borders, at level IB. Fine needle aspiration cytology was indicated, which reported: Milan VI system, compatible with small cell carcinoma. Modified left neck dissection was performed. The biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of small cell carcinoma of the submandibular gland.

Conclusions: Small cell carcinoma is a very aggressive type of cancer, and its primary presentation in the submandibular gland is rare. Understanding its clinical and pathological characteristics, especially its cytomorphology, is crucial for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. This contributes to improving the quality of life of affected patients and minimizing the impact of this condition.

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Author Biographies

Luvia Ines Vistorte Vistorte, Hospital General Docente Dr Ernesto Guevara de la Serna

Especlista de primer grado en Anatomía Patológica. Profesora Asistente.

Alejandro Jarol Pavón Rojas, Hospital General Docente Ernesto Guevara de la Serna

Residente de tercer año en Anatomía Patológica. Profesor Instructor.

Lisvan Cisnero Reyes, Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Las Tunas

Estudiante de sexto año de la carrera de Medicina. 

Osleidys Rojas Silva , Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Las Tunas

Licenciada en Enfermería. Máster en atención integral al niño. Profesora Auxiliar. 

Dainel Antonio Blanco Fernández , Hospital General Docente Dr Ernesto Guevara de la Serna

Especlista de primer grado en Medicina General Integral y Anatomía Patológica. Profesor Instructor. 

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Published

2025-12-06

How to Cite

1.
Vistorte Vistorte LI, Pavón Rojas AJ, Cisnero Reyes L, Rojas Silva O, Blanco Fernández DA. Small cell carcinoma of the submandibular gland. Rev. cuba. med. mil [Internet]. 2025 Dec. 6 [cited 2025 Dec. 29];54(4):e025076805. Available from: https://revmedmilitar.sld.cu/index.php/mil/article/view/76805

Issue

Section

Case Presentation