Advanced Dental Admission Test (ADAT)

What is a typical characteristic of a pleomorphic adenoma?

1. Painful massive swelling

2. Painless, slow-growing firm mass

3. Rapidly growing ulcerative lesion

4. Soft consistency with high mobility

The correct answer is: Painless, slow-growing firm mass

A pleomorphic adenoma, commonly referred to as a benign mixed tumor, is typically characterized by a painless, slow-growing firm mass. This type of tumor generally arises in salivary glands, most frequently the parotid gland, and can vary in size over time. The slow growth rate is a significant indicator, as patients often do not notice the tumor until it reaches a considerable size. The firmness of the mass arises from the glandular and mesenchymal tissue mixture that characterizes pleomorphic adenomas. Unlike painful or rapidly growing lesions, pleomorphic adenomas are generally asymptomatic in the early stages, which contributes to the misconception that they are benign. Therefore, the description of a painless and firm mass aligns perfectly with the typical presentation of pleomorphic adenomas.