Acinic cell carcinoma is related with?

UPRVUNL - 2021

Pathology & Genetics

Easy

Appeared in: UPRVUNL - 2021

Explanation

Acinic cell carcinoma is a rare malignant tumor that originates almost exclusively in the salivary glands.
It arises from the acinar cells, which are the functional units of the salivary glands responsible for producing saliva.
The parotid gland is the most common site for this tumor, accounting for the vast majority of cases.
While it is classified as a carcinoma (malignant), it is often a slow-growing, low-grade tumor with a relatively good prognosis after surgical removal.

Option A: The most common type of cancer in the urinary bladder is Urothelial Carcinoma (or Transitional Cell Carcinoma), which arises from the cells lining the bladder.
Option C: The thyroid gland has its own distinct types of cancers, with Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma being the most common. Acinic cell carcinoma does not originate here.
Option D: The ovary is a common site for various tumors, but these are typically epithelial (like serous or mucinous cystadenocarcinoma), germ cell, or sex cord-stromal tumors.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pathology and site-specificity of Acinic Cell Carcinoma as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a crucial role in the post-operative care of patients undergoing surgery for salivary gland tumors (e.g., parotidectomy). This includes monitoring for complications like facial nerve (Cranial Nerve VII) palsy, which can cause facial drooping, and managing wound drains.
Patient education is a key nursing responsibility. This involves teaching patients to recognize signs of tumor recurrence, such as a new lump, pain, numbness, or changes in facial movement, and the importance of long-term follow-up.
What if? If the pathology report indicated a high-grade acinic cell carcinoma with perineural invasion, the clinical approach would change significantly. The prognosis would be poorer, and the patient would likely require adjuvant radiation therapy. The nurse's role would expand to include managing radiation side effects like xerostomia (dry mouth), mucositis (mouth sores), and skin reactions.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question based on pathology knowledge.
First, identify the key term in the question stem: 'Acinic cell carcinoma'.
Access your knowledge of oncology and pathology. The term 'acinic' refers to acini, which are secretory units found in various glands.
Recall or deduce that this specific carcinoma is classically associated with the salivary glands, which are rich in acinar cells.
Evaluate the given options. 'Salivary gland' is a direct and specific match.
Briefly consider the other options to confirm they are incorrect. The urinary bladder, thyroid, and ovary have their own distinct and more common types of primary cancers, making them unlikely sites for acinic cell carcinoma.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Pathology-Textbook of PATHOLOGYHarsh Mohan Part 3 (515-969) p. 20-22

E6 Pathology- ROBBINS & COTRAN PATHOLOGIC BASIS OF DISEASE 10TH Ed p. 752-754