Synovial sarcoma of the head and neck: chromosomal translation (X;18) as a diagnostic aid.
BACKGROUND: Synovial sarcoma, a rare tumor in the head and neck, has been historically diagnosed by its characteristic biphasic histologic pattern. Monophasic variants exist which can be difficult to diagnose. METHODS: Two cases of synovial sarcoma of the head and neck are presented. Both cases, cytogenetic analysis was performed using standard protocols. RESULTS: Both tumors demonstrated a chromosomal translocation, t(X;18)(p11.2;q11.2), which either made or confirmed the diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: Synovial sarcoma contains a characteristic chromosomal translocation which is a useful diagnostic tool, especially when histologic studies are equivocal.