What is a salivary gland tumor?
Salivary glands help make saliva, which keeps the mouth moist and helps with chewing and swallowing. A salivary gland tumor is an abnormal growth that forms in a salivary gland or in the ducts that carry saliva into the mouth. Most salivary gland tumors are noncancerous (benign), but some are cancerous (malignant). In rare cases, a noncancerous tumor can become cancerous over time.
These tumors can develop in the major salivary glands, including the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands. They can also form in the many minor salivary glands throughout the mouth and throat. Tumors in the major glands are more common and are often benign, while tumors in the minor glands are less common but more likely to be malignant. The type of tumor, where it develops, and whether it is noncancerous or cancerous all help guide treatment.
At Penn Medicine, our specialists have extensive experience treating rare head and neck cancers, including salivary gland tumors. Using advanced techniques and a team-based approach, we develop individualized treatment plans for people with complex or uncommon diagnoses.
Symptoms of salivary gland tumors
Symptoms of salivary gland tumors can vary depending on the type of tumor and where it develops. Some people have no symptoms at first, while others notice changes in the face, mouth, or jaw.
Contact your doctor if you experience:
- A firm, usually painless swelling in one of your salivary glands
- Pain or swelling in your mouth or jaw, especially when eating or chewing
- Weakness or drooping on one side of your face
- A lump in your neck, jaw, or mouth
- Numbness in your face
- Trouble opening your mouth or swallowing
What causes salivary gland tumors?
In most cases, the exact cause of salivary gland tumors is not known. These tumors develop when cells in a salivary gland or its ducts change and begin to grow abnormally, forming a mass.
Certain factors may increase the risk of developing a salivary gland tumor. These include older age, prior exposure to radiation in the head or neck area, and, for some tumor types, long-term tobacco use. For example, smoking is associated with a noncancerous tumor called Warthin’s tumor. In some cases, skin cancer, especially on the head or face, can spread to the parotid gland.
Most salivary gland tumors develop sporadically, meaning they occur by chance and aren’t inherited or linked to a clear cause.
Diagnosing salivary gland tumors
An examination by a health care provider or dentist may reveal an enlarged salivary gland. During the exam, your provider will check your head and neck for lumps, swelling, or other changes. If a tumor is suspected, imaging tests and, in some cases, a biopsy may be used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of tumor.
Because swelling and other salivary gland symptoms can have many causes, an accurate diagnosis is important. At the Penn Medicine Salivary Gland Center, our providers are experienced in evaluating these symptoms and distinguishing between tumors and inflammatory salivary gland conditions.
How salivary gland tumors are treated
Treatment for salivary gland tumors depends on whether the tumor is noncancerous or cancerous, as well as its size and location. In many cases, surgery is the main treatment. This may include procedures like parotidectomy to remove part or all of the parotid gland when a tumor is located there. Some people may also need additional therapies as part of their care.
Expert care for complex salivary gland tumors
Salivary gland conditions can be challenging to diagnose and treat, especially when they’re rare. Getting care from an experienced team can make a meaningful difference.
Our care team offers:
- Experience with rare conditions: We diagnose and treat a high number of salivary gland disorders each year, including uncommon and complex cases.
- Team-based care: Specialists in head and neck surgery, imaging, and cancer care work together to guide diagnosis and treatment decisions.
- Accurate diagnosis: Our team uses specialized tools and expertise to tell the difference between tumors and other salivary gland conditions.
- Advanced, less invasive options: We offer modern techniques, including minimally invasive and robotic procedures to treat conditions with greater precision.
- Comprehensive care: We treat a wide range of salivary gland issues, including tumors, inflammation, and autoimmune-related diseases, providing continuous care from diagnosis through treatment.
Our team partners with you at every step to support your health and achieve the best possible outcomes.
Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute
Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.
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