DISCLAIMER:
The following information was compiled from a variety of published
medical papers, resource materials, and the combined experience of
Cristina and her doctors at St. Luke’s – Roosevelt Hospital, New York
City. – Mario Tolentino
Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma (ACC) is a relatively rare form of cancer
that microscopically appears with many complex underlying structural
features with almost endless variations. ACC commonly develops in the
salivary glands or other regions of the head and neck. In some cases,
ACC may arise in other primary sites, such as the skin, the breast, the
neck of the uterus (cervix) in females, the prostate gland in males,
lungs, liver, bone, or other areas. This complicated pattern and
appearance can complicate its diagnosis. ACC has been shown to exhibit
some common characteristics in a high percentage of patients including
a pattern of slow growth, a tendency to metastasize to the lungs and
other organs, a high propensity to extend from the original tumor and
infiltrate the surrounding nerve linings (perineural spread) and a
strong resistance to any chemotherapy drugs. The median age for
diagnosis is approximately 35 years and there appears to be a fairly
equal occurrence in both males and females.
For more information about this rare disease, including current and
future research, and other pertinent topics, clicks on the following
sites. CRISTINA’S WINGS is partnered with these two wonderful
organizations that make aware of ACC and research funds.
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-Epictetus
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