Salivary gland tumors are abnormal growths that develop in the glands responsible for producing saliva. The vast majority of these tumors are benign (non-cancerous), but a small percentage can be malignant (cancerous), requiring more complex treatment.
Where do they most commonly occur?
The most common location is the parotid gland, which is situated just in front of the ear. In fact, about 85% of all salivary gland tumors start here. The most frequent type of benign tumor is called a pleomorphic adenoma.
What are the symptoms?
A lump or painless swelling in the cheek, jaw, lip, or inside the mouth.
For malignant (cancerous) tumors, additional symptoms may include:
Facial pain or persistent pain in the area.
Numbness or a feeling of weakness in part of the face (often due to the tumor affecting a facial nerve).
Difficulty swallowing or fully opening the mouth.
How are they diagnosed?
If a tumor is suspected, the diagnostic process usually involves:
A Physical Exam: A doctor will feel the areas around your jaw, neck, and throat.
Imaging Tests: An MRI or CT scan is used to get a detailed picture of the tumor’s size and location.
A Biopsy: This is the most important step. A small sample of the tissue is removed and analyzed under a microscope to determine if the tumor is benign or malignant.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment depends entirely on the biopsy results:
For Benign Tumors: Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the tumor. This surgery is often curative, and the prognosis is excellent.
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For Malignant Tumors: Treatment is more aggressive and may include:
Surgery to remove the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue to ensure all cancer cells are gone.
Radiation Therapy after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells and prevent recurrence.
Chemotherapy may be used if the cancer has spread (metastasized) to other parts of the body.
Why is early detection so important?
Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for a successful outcome. The survival rates for salivary gland cancers are significantly higher when the tumor is found and treated before it has had a chance to spread.
After treatment, regular follow-up appointments with your doctor are essential to monitor for any signs of the tumor returning and to manage any long-term effects of treatment. If you notice any unusual or persistent lumps or symptoms, it is important to see a doctor promptly for an evaluation.
Dr. Naser Dadaşzade is a renowned otolaryngologist (ENT) and facial plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience in Istanbul, Turkey. Born in Maragheh, […]
