What is the most common malignant salivary gland tumor?

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma is the most common malignant salivary gland tumor and is characterized by a mixture of mucous cells and epidermoid (squamous) cells. It is often found in the major salivary glands, especially the parotid gland, but can also occur in minor salivary glands. The age of onset can vary, and the prognosis depends on the grade of the tumor—low-grade tumors tend to have a better prognosis than high-grade tumors.

In contrast, the other types mentioned have different prevalence rates and characteristics. Invasive ductal carcinoma is primarily associated with breast tissue and is not typically categorized under salivary gland tumors. Acinic cell carcinoma occurs less frequently and typically represents a minor percentage of salivary gland malignancies. Adjuvant salivary duct carcinoma is a more rare and aggressive form and does not have the prevalence that mucoepidermoid carcinoma does. Thus, mucoepidermoid carcinoma stands out as the most common, making it an important tumor to recognize in the study of salivary gland malignancies.