Introduction:

This study investigates the relationship between cellularity and capsular characteristics of pleomorphic adenoma and its influence on operative strategies.

Material and methods:

The capsular characteristics and clinical data of patients with pleomorphic adenomas were reviewed according to Seifert’s definition: (1) classic type with balanced amount of cells and stroma, (2) myxoid type with abundant ground substance, interspersed spindle cells, and (3) cellular type with predominance of ductal trabecular structures and little stroma. The immunoreactivity of cellular proliferation (Ki-67) was semi-quantitatively measured using immunohistochemistry. Variables were analyzed using Fisher’s test and one-way ANOVA, with (p < 0.05) considered statistically significant.

Results:

The duration of presence was associated with cellularity (p = 0.01). In terms of capsular characteristics, satellite nodules and positive resection margins were not related to cellularity, except for incomplete capsules (p = 0.03). There was no difference in the staining scores of Ki-67 (p = 0.12).

Conclusion:

Lower cellularity reflects higher probability of an incomplete capsule, requiring more consideration for operative strategies to prevent recurrence.

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