Gastrointestinal Pathology — MCQs

Question 521: What is Warthin's tumor?

• A. A benign adenolymphoma of the parotid gland. (Correct Answer)
• B. A benign pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid.
• C. A malignant carcinoma of the parotid.
• D. A malignant carcinoma of the submandibular salivary gland.

Explanation: ***A benign adenolymphoma of the parotid gland.*** - **Warthin's tumor**, also known as adenolymphoma or papillary cystadenoma lymphomatosum, is a **benign tumor** that almost exclusively affects the **parotid gland**. [1] - It is characterized by its unique histological appearance, featuring **glandular epithelial components** surrounded by a prominent **lymphoid stroma**. [1] *A benign pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid.* - While **pleomorphic adenoma** is also a **benign tumor** of the parotid gland, it is distinct from Warthin's tumor in its cellular composition. [1] - Pleomorphic adenoma is characterized by a mix of **epithelial and mesenchymal components**, including chondroid and myxoid elements, which are not features of Warthin's tumor. [1] *A malignant carcinoma of the parotid.* - **Warthin's tumor is benign** and does not exhibit the invasive growth or metastatic potential associated with malignant carcinoma. [1] - Malignant tumors of the parotid gland would show features such as pleomorphism, mitoses, and infiltrative growth. [1] *A malignant carcinoma of the submandibular salivary gland.* - Warthin's tumor is primarily found in the **parotid gland** and is not typically associated with the submandibular gland. [1] - Furthermore, Warthin's tumor is always **benign**, not malignant. [1] **References:** [1] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Head and Neck, pp. 751-753.