Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is an infrequent kind of cancer. It usually begins in the saliva glands found in the mouth, but it can also start in other areas of the head and neck. At first, ACC might not cause any noticeable symptoms, but symptoms can appear as the tumor grows larger.
ACC is most commonly found in the saliva glands found in the mouth, but it can grow in any glands that produce secretions in the body. Doctors can often recognize ACC by its unique appearance.
In this article, you will learn about the symptoms and causes of ACC. We will also cover how it is diagnosed, the treatment options available, and other important information.
Symptoms
Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) often begins its development without causing any noticeable symptoms. Its slow growth rate means that it can progress almost several years before symptoms become apparent. However, when symptoms do arise, they vary depending on where the tumor is located in the body.
For instance, if the tumor originates in the parotid gland, common symptoms may include facial paralysis, the presence of a painless lump in the neck, face, or mouth, facial drooping, and difficulties with opening or swallowing the mouth. Similarly, if ACC begins in the breasts, individuals may detect a lump growing gradually that could be painful or sensitive upon touch.
When ACC affects the lacrimal glands situated around the eyes, symptoms may manifest as a swelling eye or changes in vision. These glands are used to secreting tears. Skin tumors caused by ACC may exhibit pain, discharge of blood or pus-like fluids, and sensitivity to touch. Moreover, if the tumor grows in the trachea and larynx—also known as the windpipe and voice box—a person may encounter breathing or speech difficulties, or notice abnormal voice.
Causes
Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) happens because of changes that occur in the secretory glands. Scientists are not completely sure why these changes occur.
Some experts think it might be because of alterations in genes that happen as someone gets older. This is not the same as genes that are passed down from parents.
Certain studies suggest that changes to a gene called p53 might lead to more severe cases of ACC. This gene usually helps to prevent tumors from forming.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing adenoid cystic carcinoma involves several steps. Firstly, the doctor will conduct a physical examination and ask about family and personal medical history.
They might be able to spot ACC tumors because they have a unique appearance. To confirm, they’ll examine tissue samples from the tumor under a microscope. This process called a biopsy, helps determine if the cells are cancerous.
ACC can look similar to other conditions affecting the salivary glands or other body parts, so doctors need to make sure they’re identifying it correctly.
To get a clearer picture, the doctor might order scans like X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans. These tests help them see inside the body and locate any tumors or abnormalities.
Treatment
Treating adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) depends on different things like age, where the tumor is, whether it has spread, how healthy the person is, and what they prefer.
There are a few options for treating ACC:
- Surgery: This means the removal of the tumor with an operation. It’s the usual treatment for ACC.
- Chemotherapy: This treatment uses strong medicines to kill cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy: This uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.
Usually, doctors will suggest surgery first. But if surgery isn’t possible, they might recommend other treatments or a mix of treatments.
Complications
Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) can lead to complications, especially depending on where the tumor grows.
Here are some possible issues:
- Hair loss: If the tumor grows near the scalp, it might cause hair loss.
- Vision changes: ACC near the eyes can affect vision.
- Weakness or paralysis in the face: This can happen if the tumor presses on nerves in the face.
- Difficult breathing: If the tumor affects the airways in the neck or chest, it can make breathing difficult.
- Changes in voice: Tumors in the throat or near the voice box can alter someone’s voice.
ACC can also extend to nearby lymph glands or nerves. In some cases, it can even spread to other parts of the body, like the liver or lungs.
Prevention
Preventing adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) might not be possible because scientists aren’t sure what exactly leads to it. If someone is worried about ACC, it’s important for them to talk to a doctor. They can discuss any concerns or symptoms they have, and the doctor can provide guidance on what to do next. Early detection and treatment can often improve outcomes for people with ACC.
Outlook
For most individuals with adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC), they can expect to live for at least 5 years after their diagnosis. However, many may experience the cancer coming back.
A study of 160 people with ACC found that about 89% of them were still alive after 5 years, and around 40% were alive after 15 years. These numbers give an idea of how many people survive after being diagnosed with ACC. But it’s important to understand that survival rates don’t predict whether someone will definitely be alive in 5 or 15 years. They’re more like averages, helping doctors explain a person’s general outlook. Many other factors unique to each person also influence their chances of survival.
Summary
Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is an infrequent cancer that usually begins in the glands that produce secretions. While it often begins in the parotid glands of the mouth, it can also occur in other parts of the body.
Symptoms vary depending on where the tumor is located. The exact reason for ACC is still unknown, but scientists think changes in genes over time might play a role.
To diagnose ACC, doctors use imaging tests and may take a sample of the tumor through a biopsy. Surgery is the most usual treatment, but radiation therapy or chemotherapy might also be options.
If there are concerns about ACC, it’s important to see a doctor promptly. They can conduct tests to confirm the analysis and suggest appropriate treatments. Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes for people with ACC.
