Salivary gland tumour

Salivary Gland Tumour

File:Salivary gland tumour.jpg

A microscopic image of a salivary gland tumour, courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

A Salivary Gland Tumour is a type of neoplasm that originates in the salivary gland tissue. These tumours can be benign or malignant and can occur in any of the salivary glands.

Types

There are several types of salivary gland tumours, including:

• Pleomorphic adenoma: This is the most common type of salivary gland tumour. It is usually benign and grows slowly.
• Warthin's tumour: This is the second most common type of salivary gland tumour. It is also benign and typically occurs in the parotid gland.
• Mucoepidermoid carcinoma: This is a malignant tumour that can occur in any salivary gland.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a salivary gland tumour may include:

• A lump or swelling on or near your jaw or in your neck or mouth
• Numbness in part of your face
• Muscle weakness on one side of your face
• Persistent pain in the area of a salivary gland
• Difficulty swallowing or opening your mouth widely

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a salivary gland tumour typically involves a physical exam, imaging tests, and a biopsy to remove a sample of tissue for testing.

Treatment

Treatment for salivary gland tumours depends on the type and stage of the tumour. Options may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

See Also

• Salivary gland diseases
• Head and neck cancer
• Oncology