Lectin immunohistochemical study in adenoid cystic carcinoma of salivary gland

Immunohistochemical distribution of seven lectins （ConA, SBA, DBA, RGA, WGA, UEA1, PNA） were evaluated in 33 cases of adenoid cystic carcinoma （AGC） arising in salivary glands. The results indicated that neoplastic ductal cells tended to mimic the glycoprotin synthesis of their normal conterparts. The distribution patterns of PNA and UEA1 were of special interest: much more PNA receptors were demonstrated in ACC than in normal salivary glared tissue, while UEA1 receptors were reduced in ACC as compared with normal tissue. Incresed PNA receptors may be a sign of malignent transformation in salivary gland tissue.