Expression of CD44 standard and variant isoforms in parotid gland and parotid gland tumours

In this study, we investigated the distribution of the standard form of the CD44 (CD44s) cell adhesion molecule and of its v3 and v6 isoforms in sampl es of foetal and adult parotid gland tissue, in comparison with samples of parotid gland adenomas and carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma. Foetal parotid gland showed CD44s and CD44v3 expression in the peripheral small primordia l ducts and acini, while CD44v6 was only focally expressed. Adult parotid g land tissue showed a similar distribution of CD44s and variants, with a pre dominant expression in acinar structures and a weaker expression at duct le vel. In parotid gland adenomas, a diffuse and intense expression of CD44s a nd variants 3 and 6 was observed only in pleomorphic adenomas, while expres sion of CD44s was prevalent in Warthin's tumour, myoepithelioma and oncocyt oma. The malignant areas of carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma showed a marke dly decreased expression of CD44v3 and CD44v6 in comparison with the adjace nt pleomorphic adenoma component. In conclusion, the prevalent expression o f CD44s and variants in pleomorphic adenoma in comparison with other adenom as may be related to the abundant extracellular matrix production present i n these tumours, while loss of CD44v3 and CD44v6 associated with the onset of carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma could promote stromal invasion, eventua lly contributing to the development of distant metastases.