Palatal mucoepidermoid carcinoma mimicking benign lesions: integrating clinical, histopathological, and Immuno histochemical insights

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is the most common malignant tumour of the salivary glands, yet its clinicopathological overlap with benign and malignant mimics poses significant diagnostic challenges. We report a low-grade MEC of the posterior hard palate in a 20-year-old female and integrate recent literature on grading, molecular genetics and management. Thorough histopathological evaluation—including special stains, immunohistochemistry and assessment of the AFIP criteria—enabled accurate diagnosis, guiding conservative surgical excision and an excellent two-year outcome. This report underscores the pivotal role of integrated diagnostics in minor-gland MEC and highlights evolving molecular and therapeutic strategies.