Abstract
OBJECTIVES: The primary objective of this study is to report and analyze two rare cases of secretory carcinoma (SC) of the minor salivary glands, focusing on their diagnostic and therapeutic work-up. The study aims to enhance scientific knowledge about SC, which is crucial for developing targeted therapies and ensuring precise diagnosis, especially differentiating it from acinic cell carcinoma (ACC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study involved a detailed examination of two patients diagnosed with SC of the minor salivary glands. Clinical examinations, histological investigations, and immunohistochemical analyses were conducted. The treatment approach included surgical excision of the lesions followed by regular follow-ups to monitor for recurrence. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to identify the presence of markers such as GATA3, SOX-10, NTRK, mammaglobin, and others. RESULTS: Two cases are shown: a case of a 76-year-old male with a lesion in the hard palate was initially misdiagnosed as leukoplakia. After surgical excision and histological examination, the lesion was identified as SC. The patient underwent follow-up examinations, including MRI and CT scans, which showed no recurrence, and another case of a 39-year-old female with a nodule in the superior left vestibule underwent surgery to remove the nodule. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed SC, showing a high proliferation index and presence of the ETV6-NTRK3 gene fusion. Follow-up imaging showed no signs of disease recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: The study underscores the importance of precise diagnosis and differentiation of SC from ACC. Surgical excision followed by regular monitoring is effective in managing SC. Immunohistochemical and molecular analyses are crucial for accurate diagnosis. The findings contribute to the growing body of evidence on SC and highlight the potential for developing more targeted therapies. Further research is needed to establish clear guidelines for follow-up duration and treatment protocols.