Mucin production by pleomorphic adenomas of the parotid gland: a cytologic spectrum.

Mucinous salivary gland aspirations represent a special differential diagnostic problem. Considerations include pleomorphic adenoma, Warthin's tumor, chronic obstructive sialadenitis, and low-grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma. We herein discuss three cases that illustrate a spectrum of mucin production by pleomorphic adenomas. The literature is reviewed, and the possible distinction of pleomorphic adenoma from low-grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma is considered.