Salivary gland hyperplasia

Salivary gland hyperplasia is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal enlargement or proliferation of the salivary glands. This condition can affect any of the major or minor salivary glands, including the parotid gland, submandibular gland, and sublingual gland.

Causes

Salivary gland hyperplasia can be caused by a variety of factors. These include inflammation, infection, autoimmune diseases, and neoplasia. In some cases, the cause of the hyperplasia may be unknown, a condition referred to as idiopathic salivary gland hyperplasia.

Symptoms

The symptoms of salivary gland hyperplasia can vary depending on the gland affected and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include swelling or enlargement of the affected gland, pain or discomfort, and difficulty swallowing or speaking. In some cases, there may also be changes in saliva production, such as xerostomia (dry mouth) or sialorrhea (excessive salivation).

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of salivary gland hyperplasia typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions such as salivary gland tumors.

Treatment

Treatment for salivary gland hyperplasia depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Options may include conservative management with observation and symptom control, medication to reduce inflammation or treat underlying conditions, and in some cases, surgical intervention to remove the affected gland.

See also

• Salivary gland diseases
• Sialadenitis
• Sialolithiasis

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