Canalicular Adenoma
Pronunciation: kan-ah-LIK-yoo-lar ad-eh-NOH-mah
A benign salivary gland tumour occurring almost exclusively in the upper lip of older adults, characterised by anastomosing strands of columnar epithelial cells in a loose stroma.
Full Definition
Canalicular adenoma is a benign monomorphic adenoma of minor salivary gland origin, with a marked predilection for the upper lip in patients over 50 years of age. Histologically, it is defined by parallel or branching cords of columnar epithelial cells separated by a highly vascularised, loosely structured stroma. Unlike pleomorphic adenoma, it lacks a myxochondroid stromal component and carries a very low recurrence risk after excision. Editors must not confuse this entity with polymorphous adenocarcinoma, which it may resemble clinically. Multifocal lesions are well documented and should be noted as such in pathology summaries.
Usage
Usage note: When multifocality is mentioned, ensure the report explicitly states 'multifocal canalicular adenoma' rather than implying recurrence.
In Context
- "The excision biopsy of the upper lip nodule was reported as canalicular adenoma with clear surgical margins." — Surgical pathology report
- "Copy-editors should flag any conflation of canalicular adenoma with polymorphous adenocarcinoma, as the clinical implications differ markedly." — Editorial training note