title: Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma
text: # Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma
  
  Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma (PLGA) is a rare, asymptomatic, slow-growing malignant salivary gland tumor. It is most commonly found in the palate.
  
  The name of the tumor derives from the fact that:
  
  * It has a varied microscopic architectural appearance, i.e. it is polymorphous.
  * It is non-aggressive when compared to other oral cavity tumors, i.e. it is a low-grade tumor.
  * It forms glands, i.e. it is an adenocarcinoma.
  
  It affects the minor salivary glands in the area between the hard and the soft palate. Male to female ratio is 3:1, and the average age is 56 years.
  
  ## Histology
  
  PLGAs consist of a monomorphous cell population that has a varied histologic morphology.
  
  Microscopically, its histology can be confused with an adenoid cystic carcinoma and a pleomorphic adenoma.
  
  * Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma. H&E stain.
  * Micrograph of a polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma. H&E stain.
  
  ## Treatment
  
  PLGAs are treated with wide local surgical excision and long-term follow-up. There is a recurrence rate of 14% (Peterson, contemporary of oral and maxillofacial surgery).
  
  