KOREASCHOLAR

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is the most prevalent malignant tumor originating from the salivary gland. The gradation of MEC is determined histologically based on cellular composition, with high-grade MEC presenting with distinct characteristics and clinical implications. A 56-year-old male presented with a 3-month history of right facial swelling and a recent onset of pain. A subsequent biopsy confirmed a malignant epithelial tumor, with further imaging assisting in determining the surgical approach. Comprehensive surgery, involving the removal of the right submandibular gland and reconstructive procedures, was undertaken. Histopathological evaluation post-surgery confirmed a high-grade MEC. The differentiation between inflammatory conditions and neoplastic lesions in the orofacial region can be challenging. The gradation of MEC is important in guiding therapeutic decisions. Among various classification systems, the Brandwein system offers detailed histopathological criteria that correlate reliably with clinical features. High-grade MECs, although less frequent, are aggressive and have a lower 5-year survival rate. Accurate histopathological diagnosis is crucial in devising an effective treatment plan. The presented case underlines the importance of a meticulous yet periodic follow-up, considering the aggressive nature of high-grade MECs.

Ⅰ. INTRODUCTION
Ⅱ. CASE REPORT
Ⅲ. DISCUSSION
Ⅳ. CONCLUSION

• 정재환(연세대학교 치과대학 구강악안면외과학교실) | Jae Hwan Jung (Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea)
• 조상흠(연세대학교 치과대학 구강악안면외과학교실) | Sanghuem Cho (Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea)
• 홍진호(연세대학교 치과대학 구강악안면외과학교실) | Jin-Ho Hong (Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea)
• 한승용(연세대학교 치과대학 구강병리학교실) | Seung-Yong Han (Department of Oral Pathology, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea)
• 김현실(연세대학교 치과대학 구강병리학교실) | Hyung Sil Kim (Department of Oral Pathology, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea)
• 남웅(연세대학교 치과대학 구강악안면외과학교실) | Woong Nam (Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Yonsei University College of Dentistry, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea) Corresponding author