ABC Medical Center > Diseases > Basal Cell Adenoma

What is basal cell adenoma?

11 December 2025

It is a rare, benign tumor of the salivary glands characterized by slow and progressive development. Although it can arise at any age, it has a higher incidence in older adults.

Basal cell adenoma is part of what is known as basaloid tumors and is similar to a pleomorphic adenoma. It primarily affects the parotid glands, but can also manifest in the minor salivary glands, particularly in the upper lip and buccal mucosa.

The exact cause of basal cell adenoma is currently unknown, as most cases arise spontaneously, meaning there are no known genetic or environmental factors. However, according to clinical research, the risk of developing this tumor increases in people with familial cylindromatosis syndrome.

Basal cell adenomas are classified according to their form as:

  • Membranous
  • Solid
  • Trabecular
  • Tubular

The following factors may contribute to the appearance and development of a basal cell adenoma:

  • Exposure to radiation therapy.
  • Exposure to toxic substances.
  • Being 65 years old or older.

Signs and symptoms Basal Cell Adenoma

Since it develops gradually, basal cell adenoma often produces no symptoms, but it may occasionally manifest the following:

  • A small, oval or rounded, firm, mobile, and painless lump over one of the salivary glands.
  • Difficulty swallowing.
  • Swelling of the affected salivary gland.
  • Loss of facial movement.

The major risk or complication that a basal cell adenoma can cause is the formation of corneal ulcers.

Diagnosis and treatment Basal Cell Adenoma

Once the doctor analyzes the symptoms and clinical history, they will perform a physical examination and request the following tests to confirm the presence of a basal cell adenoma:

  • Ultrasound.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
  • Computed Tomography (CT scan).
  • Tissue biopsy.

The treatment for a basal cell adenoma depends on the tumor’s location and extent, but typically includes a surgical procedure to fully or partially remove the parotid gland using various techniques appropriate to the tumor’s location.

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Related centers and departments Basal Cell Adenoma

Cancer Center
High Specialty Surgery Center
Radiology and Molecular Imaging
Clinical Laboratory

Fuentes:

  • cancer.org
  • elsevier.es
  • cun.es
  • pathologyoutlines.com
  • medlineplus.gov
  • mayoclinic.org
  • medigraphic.com
  • Avila RE, Samar ME, Ferraris RV, et al. Adenoma de células basales: presentación de cinco casos de un raro tumor de glándulas salivales. Oral. 2019;20(62):1684-1689.
  • García LY, Franco GLE, de la Torre MG, et al. Adenoma de células basales parotídeo: reporte de un caso, manejo terapéutico y revisión de la literatura. Rev ADM. 2016;73(4):201-205.
  • Morales-Cadena M, Ortiz-Moreno CD, Macías-Valle LF, et al. Adenoma de células basales en glándulas salivales menores. Una localización atípica. Otorrinolaringología. 2014;59(2):144-149.

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