Overview
Salivary gland cancer refers to malignant tumors that develop in the salivary glands, which produce saliva to aid digestion and oral hygiene. The major salivary glands include the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands, while minor glands are scattered throughout the mouth and throat.
There are many subtypes of salivary gland cancer, including:
- Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (most common)
- Adenoid cystic carcinoma
- Acinic cell carcinoma
- Salivary duct carcinoma
Symptoms
- Painless lump or swelling in the jaw, neck, or mouth
- Facial numbness or weakness
- Difficulty swallowing
- Persistent pain in the salivary gland region
- Trouble opening the mouth fully
Causes & Risk Factors
- Previous radiation exposure (e.g., radiation therapy for other cancers)
- Age (more common in people over 50)
- Workplace exposure to certain chemicals (rubber, plumbing, asbestos)
- Genetic syndromes (e.g., Lynch syndrome, BRCA mutations)
Diagnosis
- Physical and oral exam
- Imaging: MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound
- Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy
- Surgical biopsy for histologic confirmation
Treatment Options
- Surgery (primary treatment; may involve nerve preservation or removal)
- Radiation therapy (especially for high-grade tumors or positive margins)
- Chemotherapy (less commonly used; may be considered in metastatic disease)
- Targeted therapy (for HER2-positive or androgen receptor–positive subtypes)
Prognosis
- Depends on tumor type, grade, and stage
- Low-grade and early-stage tumors have good prognosis
- High-grade or aggressive subtypes may recur or metastasize
Living with this Cancer Type
- Physical therapy if facial nerves are affected
- Speech and swallowing rehabilitation
- Cosmetic and reconstructive options post-surgery
- Long-term follow-up for recurrence
Prevention & Screening
- No routine screening available
- Avoid unnecessary radiation exposure
- Occupational safety for chemical exposure
FAQs
Q: Are all salivary gland tumors cancerous?
A: No, many are benign. Diagnosis requires biopsy.
Q: Can salivary gland cancer spread?
A: Yes, particularly high-grade cancers can spread to lymph nodes or distant organs.
Q: Will I lose facial function after surgery?
A: It depends on the tumor’s location and whether facial nerves can be preserved.
Resources
- American Head and Neck Society
- Salivary Gland Cancer Foundation
- ClinicalTrials.gov
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