Health Information : Salivary Gland Neoplasm

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What is Salivary Gland Neoplasm?

Salivary Gland Neoplasm is a rare type of cancer that starts in one of the salivary glands. Salivary Gland makes saliva that perform various function in the mouth, such as, it helps in digestion and contains antibodies as well as other substances that prevent against infection of mouth & throat.

Salivary gland can be classified as:

• Major Salivary Gland – It comprises of parotid glands (largest glands), two submandibular glands and two sublingual glands.
• Minor – There are several minor glands lying beneath the lining of lips, tongue, roof of mouth, inside cheeks, nose, sinuses and larynx.

What causes Salivary Gland Neoplasm?

Salivary Gland Neoplasm can occur due to:

• Abdominal surgery
• Cirrhosis of the liver
• Salivary duct stones
• Salivary gland infections
• Dehydration
• Sarcoidosis
• Sjogren syndrome

What are the symptoms of Salivary Gland Neoplasm?

The signs and symptoms of Salivary Gland Neoplasm include:

• Firm but painless swelling in one of the salivary glands
• Formation of lump
• Facial nerve palsy (difficulty moving one side of face)
• Trouble swallowing
• Numbness and weakness in affected area

How can Salivary Gland Neoplasm be treated?

Surgery is usually done to remove tumor in case of Salivary Gland Neoplasm. It may then be followed by radiation therapy.