American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

What is the classification of Warthin's tumor?

1. Benign

2. Malignant

3. Borderline

4. Infectious

The correct answer is: Benign

Warthin's tumor, also known as papillary cystadenoma lymphomatosum, is classified as benign. This neoplasm typically arises in the parotid gland and is characterized by its slow growth and low potential for aggressive behavior. It is related to the proliferation of salivary gland epithelium and associated lymphoid tissue, which gives it its unique histological features. The distinction of Warthin's tumor as benign is crucial because it informs management strategies. Generally, these tumors are not associated with metastasis or significant morbidity, and surgical excision is often curative. The other classifications, such as malignant, borderline, or infectious, would imply varying degrees of treatment approaches and prognostic implications that do not align with the established understanding of Warthin's tumor. Thus, recognizing it as benign plays an essential role in patient care and surgical decision-making.