Canalicular adenoma: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: Canalicular adenoma (CA) is an uncommon but unique benign tumor of salivary gland origin. It is the third most common benign tumor of minor salivary glands, representing less than 1% of all salivary neoplasms. A systematic review is presented of reported cases of CA, to determine trends in presentation, diagnostic features, treatment, and patient outcome.

METHODS: Searches of specific databases, as reported, were carried out to identify papers reporting CA. The variables were patient symptoms, tumor location, histopathological findings, demographics, treatment, follow-up, and recurrence.

RESULTS: 430 cases were identified; the most common location was in the upper lip (66.3%), followed by hard palate (14.5%). The most common clinical presentation was a nodule (46.5%), followed by asymptomatic (29.5%), and discomfort (28.7%). CA was most frequently seen in females (64%). The average age was 66.3 years. 97% of cases were treated surgically. The average follow-up was 136.3 months, and recurrence was reported in 3% of the cases.

CONCLUSION: CA shows a strong predilection for the upper lip. CAs are frequently asymptomatic, but the principal symptom was pressure.