Salivary Gland Tumours

The salivary glands are the organs that produce saliva, which keeps the mouth moist and starts the first step of digestion. There are three pairs of major salivary glands: the parotid gland in front of the ear, the submandibular gland under the lower jaw and the sublingual gland under the tongue. In addition, many minor salivary glands are scattered across the lining of the mouth and throat. A benign or malignant tumour can develop in any of these glands; tumours are most often found in the parotid gland.

Most salivary gland tumours are benign and are usually noticed as a painless, slowly growing lump. Every lump should nevertheless be evaluated, because some benign tumours can change over time, and malignant tumours can be treated with simpler methods when they are recognised early. The diagnosis is made by examination, imaging and fine-needle biopsy; the mainstay of treatment is removal of the gland together with the tumour, while protecting the facial nerve and the surrounding structures.

The pages in this section introduce salivary gland tumours in general; discuss parotid and submandibular gland tumours separately; explain the features of malignant tumours (salivary gland cancer); and describe how surgery is performed and what awaits you during recovery after surgery. The aim is to help you understand the medical terms you come across and to go into the conversation with your doctor well prepared.