What are the symptoms of Acinic Cell Carcinoma?

Common symptoms of Acinic Cell Carcinoma of Salivary Gland include the following:

• Tumor growth forming a lump (sometimes with pain)
• Facial paralysis
• Eating/chewing difficulties

What causes Acinic Cell Carcinoma?

Acinic Cell Carcinoma of Salivary Gland cause is unknown, but genetic factors may be at work in the development of ACC, but none of the abnormalities seen in patients have been consistent or specific to disease formation. However, there is one well-stablished risk factor for ACC and that is exposure to ionizing radiation. Other risk factors may be responsible and include: genetic predisposition, viral infections, smoking tobacco, rubber production, asbestos mining, exposure to nickel, woodworking and pluming equipment.

How is Acinic Cell Carcinoma diagnosed?

ACC diagnosis includes: complete medical history (including immediate family), an in-depth physical exam, Head and neck x-rays, ultrasound of the affected salivary gland, CT scan of head and neck, MRI scans of head and neck.

What are the treatments for Acinic Cell Carcinoma?

ACC treatment includes a combination of radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery. Selection of treatment depends on several factors, including: age, grade of tumor and overall health of the patient.

Where can I find out more about Acinic Cell Carcinoma?

• Dove Med
• MD Anderson Cancer Center
• American Cancer Society