Attention: Salivary Gland Tumor

Beware of Salivary Gland Tumors! Saliva secreted from salivary glands moistens the mouth, enabling swallowing, speech and taste. An adult human secretes approximately 0.6 to 1.5 liters of saliva per day. Tumors can develop in salivary glands, which perform vital functions in the body. Since the exact causes of salivary gland tumors are not fully known, early diagnosis is important for successful treatment. Assoc. Prof. Ela Araz Server from the Otolaryngology Department at Memorial Şişli Hospital provided information about salivary gland tumors and their treatment. The body contains three types of major salivary glands: two in front of the ears (parotid glands), two under the jaw (submandibular glands) and two under the tongue (sublingual glands), as well as numerous minor salivary glands distributed throughout the mouth, respiratory and digestive systems. The glands under the jaw are submandibular salivary glands and are the largest saliva-producing glands. The glands in front of the ears are called parotid glands and secrete saliva in response to stimuli such as eating. Both benign and malignant tumors can develop in salivary gland cells. Benign tumors are frequently seen in salivary glands. While benign salivary gland tumors do not spread to other tissues, malignant tumors have the potential to spread. Early diagnosis increases treatment success in malignant salivary gland cancers.

Smoking is an Important Trigger

Salivary gland cancer is more common in men. The exact cause of salivary gland tumors is unknown. No underlying cause can be identified in benign tumors, but in malignant salivary gland tumors, genetic predisposition, smoking, radiation exposure, working in asbestos-related occupations, rubber and timber work, and various plumbing work may be contributing factors.

First Sign is Swelling in Front of Ear or Under Jaw

Salivary gland tumors present symptoms depending on the affected gland. The most common symptom is swelling. Swellings or lumps may be visible in the region where the affected gland is located, for example in front of the ear, under the jaw, under the tongue, or inside the mouth. These swellings are largely painless and firm. If the tumor grows large and begins to cause pressure, pain, difficulty swallowing, difficulty opening the mouth, numbness on one side of the face, or facial drooping due to facial nerve paralysis may occur.

Surgery is the Only Treatment Method

There is no medical treatment for salivary gland tumors; surgery is the only treatment method. The extent of surgery and any additional treatments that may be needed afterward depend on the size, type and location of the tumor. If the tumor is benign and small, removing the mass alone is often sufficient, but in malignant tumors and large tumors, the entire affected salivary gland must be removed. If the tumor is malignant, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be required after surgery.

Pay Attention to These After Surgery!

The approach to salivary gland surgery varies depending on which gland is involved. Surgery is performed according to the location of the gland, such as in front of the ear or under the jaw. After surgery, mild pain in the wound area, numbness, insensitivity, and tingling sensations in the ear and face are normal. After surgery, there may sometimes be pain caused by jaw movements. The patient should not strain the jaw excessively, avoid hard foods for about a week, and should not consume foods that increase saliva secretion such as lemon, citrus fruits and pickles to avoid triggering saliva production. The wound area must not be wet and must remain clean for one week. If swelling, pain, redness or discharge appears in this area, a doctor should be consulted without delay. Scar-prevention creams can be used to reduce scarring in the wound area. Since this area will be sensitive to the sun, it should be protected from sun exposure and sun protection creams must be used.