Nasopharyngeal papillary adenocarcinoma: A case report and clinicopathologic review

Nasopharyngeal papillary adenocarcinoma (NPAC) is an extremely rare malignant tumor derived from the nasopharyngeal surface epithelium, with only a limited number of cases reported in the literature. NPAC presents as a slow-growing exophytic mass, with an excellent prognosis and rare recurrence following appropriate surgical management. In contrast, ordinary nasopharyngeal carcinoma is typically accompanied by metastatic neck masses, and radiotherapy is the mainstay of treatment. The immunohistochemical profile supports the derivation of NPAC from the surface epithelium rather than from the subjacent minor salivary glands. This tumor most commonly involves the roof, lateral wall, and posterior wall of the nasopharynx. Nasal obstruction is the main presenting symptom. The diagnosis can be confirmed readily by endoscopic biopsy. This report describes NPAC in a 50-year-old man with symptoms of blood-tinged rhinorrhea and morning headache. The patient is currently well without tumor recurrence after surgical treatment. Copyright (C) 2011, Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation. Published by Elsevier Taiwan LLC. All rights reserved.