Advanced Dental Admission Test (ADAT)

What characterization of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma is noted in pathology?

1. Fortnights Pattern

2. Cribriform Pattern

3. Solid Pattern

4. Mixed Pattern

The correct answer is: Cribriform Pattern

Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma (ACC) is a distinctive type of salivary gland tumor, and its histological characterization often includes the cribriform pattern. In pathology, the cribriform pattern is characterized by the presence of multiple interconnected spaces or 'cribriform' areas within the tumor. This pattern results from the proliferation of myoepithelial cells and creates a unique appearance that can resemble sieve-like structures, which is a hallmark of this carcinoma. The cribriform architecture is significant in the diagnosis of ACC and is often associated with the tumor's tendency for perineural invasion, which can influence the prognosis and treatment approach. Recognizing this pattern in histological slides assists pathologists in differentiating ACC from other salivary gland tumors, thus underscoring its clinical relevance. Other patterns such as solid, mixed, or fortnights patterns do not capture the characteristic microstructure typical of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma, making them less applicable in this context.