Evolving Concepts in Salivary Duct Carcinoma: A Narrative Review

Oncology and Therapy 2026 Open access

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Authors: Marvin C. Masalunga, Patrick James Bradley, Carla van Herpen, Toshitaka Nagao, Göran Stenman, Vincent Vander Poorten, Henrik Hellquist, Silvana Di Palma, Martina Bradová, Ilmo Leivo, Alfio Ferlito, Alena Skálová
DOI: 10.1007/s40487-026-00447-6
Cited by: 1
References: 123

Abstract

Salivary duct carcinoma (SDC) is an aggressive neoplasm that typically involves the major salivary glands. This rapidly growing tumor is known to recur and metastasize to the neck nodes and to distant sites. Given its poor prognosis, researchers have focused on identifying factors and driver genomic alterations that may account for its behavior, ultimately yielding potential therapeutic targets. This review summarizes the growing body of knowledge on SDC since the publication of the latest WHO Classification of Tumors of the Head and Neck. Updates on emerging subtypes, immunohistochemical profiles, molecular alterations, and potential therapeutic targets are succinctly presented. Findings from studies on tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), which may have implications for the treatment and prognosis of SDC, are also discussed in this narrative review.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Salivary Gland Tumors Diagnosis and Treatment Salivary Gland Disorders and Functions Head and Neck Cancer Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Oncology and Therapy
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
14
Issue
2
Pages
575–595
Publication date
1 June 2026
Language
EN