Basal Cell Adenoma of the Parotid Gland

Three cases of basal cell adenoma of the parotid gland are reported with a review of the literature. The clinical, gross, and microscopic features appear distinctive enough to justify separation of this tumor from mixed tumors (pleomorphic adenomas) of the salivary glands. The tumors have been reported more commonly in individuals over 60 years of age and show little tendency for recurrence. Electron microscopy reveals that the material between groupings of tumor cells is reduplication of basal lamina. In contrast to other salivary gland tumors, myoepithelial cells do not participate in the neoplastic process.