What You Should Know About Parotid and Salivary Gland Tumors

 

A salivary gland tumor is an abnormal growth that develops in one of the salivary glands. These glands produce saliva, which helps in chewing, swallowing, and digestion. There are several salivary glands in the mouth and neck area. The largest one is the parotid gland, located in front of the ear and extending to the angle of the jaw.

Most salivary gland tumors occur in the parotid gland. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Understanding the types, symptoms, and treatment options can help patients make informed decisions.



What Is a Salivary Gland Tumor?

A salivary gland tumor in the parotid gland is a growth that forms in the tissue of the gland. The parotid gland develops early in the embryo and grows near the facial nerve and lymph nodes. Because of this close relationship, surgery in this area requires special care to protect the nerve that controls facial movement.

About 85% of parotid tumors are benign. The remaining 15% are malignant. Even though most are not cancer, they still require medical evaluation and often surgical removal.

What Are the Common Types of Salivary Gland Tumors?

The most common type is the pleomorphic adenoma, also called a benign mixed tumor. This tumor usually has well-defined edges and does not invade nearby tissue. However, it continues to grow over time. If left untreated, it may become cancerous in about 5 to 15% of cases. This condition is called carcinoma ex-pleomorphic adenoma.

Another common benign tumor is Warthin’s tumor, also known as papillary cystadenoma lymphomatosum. It is usually treated successfully with surgery. In some cases, it can occur on both sides of the face.

Other benign tumors include oncocytomas and monomorphic tumors. These are less common and are also treated with surgical removal.

In children, hemangiomas are the most common type. These are tumors made of blood vessels and may also appear in other parts of the body.

There are also benign lymphoepithelial lesions in HIV patients, which may cause cysts and swelling. These are removed if they cause changes that suggest lymphoma or become disfiguring.

What Are the Symptoms of a Salivary Gland Tumor?

The most common symptom is a painless lump in front of the ear or near the jaw. Some people may notice slow growth over months or years. Other possible signs include:

  • Swelling in the cheek area
  • Numbness or weakness in the face
  • Pain near the ear or jaw
  • Difficulty moving part of the face

Facial weakness may be a sign of a malignant tumor because the facial nerve runs through the parotid gland. This is why early diagnosis is important.

How Is a Salivary Gland Tumor Diagnosed?

Doctors usually begin with a physical exam. Imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI help determine the size and location of the tumor.

A fine needle biopsy for salivary gland tumor diagnosis is often done to check if the tumor is benign or malignant. This test involves removing a small sample of cells with a thin needle.

Early diagnosis helps plan the best treatment and reduces the risk of complications.

What Is the Treatment for Salivary Gland Tumor?

The main treatment is surgery. A parotidectomy surgery for salivary gland tumor removal is performed to remove the tumor while protecting the facial nerve.

There are two main types of surgery:

  • Superficial parotidectomy: Removes the outer part of the gland
  • Total parotidectomy: Removes the entire gland if needed

In some cases, a facelift incision technique may be used to reduce visible scarring. This approach can improve cosmetic results while still allowing safe tumor removal.

If the tumor is malignant, additional treatment such as radiation therapy may be recommended after surgery.

Is Surgery Safe for Parotid Tumors?

Surgery is generally safe when performed by experienced surgeons. The most important concern is protecting the facial nerve. Temporary weakness can happen after surgery, but permanent damage is less common when performed by skilled specialists.

Most benign tumors are cured completely with surgery. Recurrence is rare but possible, especially if the tumor is not fully removed.

Can Salivary Gland Tumors Be Prevented?

There is no clear way to prevent salivary gland tumors. However, early detection is key. If you notice a lump or swelling near the ear or jaw that does not go away, it is important to see a doctor.

Regular check-ups and early imaging can help detect tumors before they grow large or cause complications.

When Should You See a Specialist?

You should consult a specialist if you experience:

  • A persistent lump near the ear
  • Facial weakness
  • Rapid tumor growth
  • Pain in the parotid area

Early treatment can prevent further growth and reduce the risk of cancer development.

Salivary gland tumors, especially those in the parotid gland, are mostly benign but still require careful medical evaluation. With proper diagnosis and skilled surgical treatment, outcomes are generally very good.

For those seeking expert care and surgical management of salivary gland tumors, treatment is available at Alpha Surgical Group, located at 9735 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90211, USA.

 

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