Histopathological study of oncocyte in human labial salivery gland

Abstract

There are few systemic examinations of oncocyte in normal salivary glands, so the genesis of oncocyte remains obscure.
In this study, we examined the appearance and histological patterns of oncocyte in 436 cases of human labial salivary glands obtained from patients of various ages. We discussed the possible mode of development and the significance of these cells. The results were as follows:
1) Oncocytes were found in 20 persons (4. 6%) ranging from 11 to 77 years of age and were more often observed in the over 50-year-olds. The frequency was slightly higher in females than in males.
2) Oncocytes were noted in the canalicular system interlobular ducts, large intralobular ducts and small intralobular ducts but were not found in acini and excretory ducts.
3) Multiplicated patterns, such as infolding or stratifying of oncocytes in the duct wall were more frequently found in older cases.
4) In 12 of 20 oncocyte-positive cases, the oncocytes were observed in areas of the probable proliferation including the various patterns, that is, stratification, cyst formation, papillary projection and the group such as microtubular appearance, and such appearances were found more frequently in older cases.
5) The relationship between the presence of the oncocyte and the glandular inflammatory change was suspected. In 12 of 20 oncocyte-positive cases (60%), inflammatory changes of labial salivery glands were recognized.
6) Development and presence of the oncocyte may be influenced by systemic factors such as Sjögren's syndrome, because of the fact that oncocytes were recognized in 11 cases of Sjögren's syndrome.