A 41 year old man presented with swelling over parotid area. He has only mild pain. Which is the commonest tumor of the parotid?

**Core Concept**
Pleomorphic adenoma, also known as benign mixed tumor, is a type of salivary gland tumor that commonly affects the parotid gland. It is a benign epithelial neoplasm characterized by a mixture of epithelial and mesenchymal components.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common salivary gland tumor, accounting for approximately 60-70% of all parotid tumors. It typically presents as a painless, slow-growing mass in the parotid area, often without significant pain or discomfort. The tumor arises from the terminal ducts and acini of the parotid gland, where it can cause swelling and displacement of the facial nerve. Pleomorphic adenoma is thought to arise from the aberrant differentiation of salivary gland cells, leading to the formation of a benign neoplasm.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Monomorphic adenoma is a rare type of salivary gland tumor that is less common than pleomorphic adenoma. It does not account for the majority of parotid tumors.
**Option B:** Wahin's tumor (Warthin's tumor) is a benign salivary gland tumor that is more common in men, but it is not the most common tumor of the parotid gland.
**Option C:** Adenocarcinoma is a malignant salivary gland tumor that is much less common than pleomorphic adenoma and typically presents with more aggressive symptoms.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential for clinicians to differentiate between benign and malignant salivary gland tumors, as the treatment and prognosis vary significantly. Pleomorphic adenoma can be treated with surgical excision, but malignant tumors require more aggressive treatment, including radiation and chemotherapy.

**✓ Correct Answer: A. Pleomorphic adenoma**