Spindle cell carcinoma in the maxilla: A rare case and literature review

Abstract

In India, oral squamous cell carcinoma accounts for 90%–95% of oral malignancies. The WHO
classifies spindle cell carcinoma (SpCC) under malignant epithelial tumors of squamous cell
carcinoma (SCC) and is a rare entity accounting for only 1% of SCCs. It is an aggressive biphasic
neoplasm exhibiting high mortality rate owing to increased metastasis and recurrence which signifies
the need for recognition and treatment of this perplexed tumor. We present a case of maxillary
SpCC where histopathological evaluation alone was indecisive, requiring immunohistochemistry
for confirmation of the diagnosis.
Key Words: Maxillary bone, spindle cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma