Quick summary • Diseases of the Salivary Glands can be diagnosed by lumps in the upper third of the neck and lumps on the side of the face in front of the ear. • There are two main glands that are affected, the Submandibular Gland and the Parotid Gland. • With the Submandibular Gland the most common reason for lumps is stone formation. Tumours are less common than in the Parotid Gland, and malignant tumours are rare. • With Parotid Gland the benign tumour grows slowly over months or years. There are two main versions of tumour, the Mixed Salivary Tumour (Pleomorphic Adenoma) and Warthin's Tumour (Adenolymphoma). • Mixed Salivary Tumour (Pleomorphic Adenoma) is hard, and mobile. Usually found in people around the age of 45, it can be found in younger people. This tumour is important for three reasons. Firstly because it is very near to the facial nerve which can be damaged at operation. Secondly because if the tumour is damaged in removal, recurrent disease is possible. Lastly this version can turn malignant, and when is does it is dangerous. • Warthin's Tumour is soft and 'cystic'. It usually affects older people, and smokers. It is not dangerous and only needs to be operated on for cosmetic reasons or if diagnosis is unsure. • Malignant Parotid Tumours should be suspected if the growth has been short or if there is any pain or tenderness. • Classification includes: Adenoidcystic carcinoma, Acinic tumour, Muco-epidermoid carcinoma, Squamous carcinoma and Adenocarcinoma. For a more detailed explanation of diseases of the Salivary Glands, and specifically Parotid tumours click here... home | salivary glands | in depth | FAQs | what to do next about | contact | publications | glossary | links Web site designed by Sixzeds ©1998 Meirion Thomas

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