Salivary gland tumors-an overview Advances in molecular characterization: Part I

In recent years, the characterization of salivary gland tumors has undergone a major transformation. Morphologically defined entities could to a large extent also be characterized molecularly with an often distinct genotype. The first part of this article reviews the advances in the molecular characteristics of mucoepidermoid carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma, acinic cell carcinoma, secretory carcinoma, intraductal carcinoma, and hyalinizing clear cell carcinoma. The molecular genotype can be particularly useful in classifying unusual morphologic variants. Recurrent NTRK or RET gene fusions can be used not only as a diagnostic tool but also for potential targeted therapy.