Salivary Gland Intraductal Carcinoma: How Do 183 Reported Cases Fit Into a Developing Classification

Salivary gland intraductal carcinoma (IDC) is a very uncommon group of neoplasms. Many names, variations in diagnostic criteria, and newly observed molecular findings (including NCOA4 :: RET , TRIM27 :: RET , HRAS point mutations, and PIK3CA pathway alterations) have generated further confusion in being able to recognize and categorize this group of tumors. Different histologic appearances and patterns of growth suggest there is more than one tumor category, with intercalated duct, apocrine, oncocytic, and hybrid features seen. Frankly destructive invasion further complicates the category, as the name “intraductal” would suggest an “in situ” neoplasm. Recent evidence on fusion-positive IDC demonstrates the same molecular underpinnings in both the ductal and the myoepithelial cells, which aids in further separating these tumors. This article summarizes the historical group of 183 neoplasms classified under the umbrella of IDC and highlights the unique histologic, immunohistochemistry, and molecular features that may further guide nomenclature standardization and harmonization.