Biomarkers in Salivary Gland Tumours- A Literature Review

Abstract

Abstract: Salivary glands are highly heterogeneous group and are diagnostically challenging with overlapping microscopic features between tumours in addition to morphological diversity within the same tumour. Correct diagnosis is essential to ensure appropriate management and follow-up. Morphological and cytological analysis of haematoxylin-eosin stained tissue sections is the gold standard for diagnosis of these tumours. However, this is supplemented by a large number of immunohistochemical (IHC) and special stains. Continual discovery of molecular changes has not only helped characterisation but also diagnosis of these tumours in recent years. Understanding of the molecular landscape of these tumours has also facilitated changes in tumour classification and allowed diagnosis of challenging cases with divergent opinions. Moreover, these some of the immunohistochemical and molecular markers may also have prognostic implications in salivary gland neoplasms.

The literature review aims to provide an up to date review of special stains, IHC and molecular markers used to diagnose and predict the prognosis of salivary gland tumours.