Salivary Gland Tumors
Growths in the glands that produce saliva
Quick Facts
- Type: Head and neck growth
- Most common site: Parotid gland (in front of the ear)
- Most common form: Benign (noncancerous)
- Main treatment: Surgery
Overview
Salivary gland tumors are abnormal growths in the glands that produce saliva. The major glands are the parotid glands (in front of and below each ear), the submandibular glands (under the jaw), and the sublingual glands (under the tongue), along with hundreds of tiny minor glands lining the mouth and throat.
Most salivary gland tumors occur in the parotid gland, and the majority of these are benign, meaning they do not spread. However, a smaller proportion are cancerous. Because the appearance of a lump alone cannot reliably tell benign from malignant, any persistent swelling in these areas should be evaluated.
Symptoms
The most common sign is a slowly growing, usually painless lump or swelling near the jaw, ear, mouth, or neck.
- A lump or firm swelling in front of or below the ear, under the jaw, or inside the mouth
- Numbness or weakness in part of the face
- Drooping on one side of the face, which can signal involvement of the facial nerve
- Pain in the gland, face, or mouth
- Difficulty opening the mouth fully or trouble swallowing
Features that raise more concern for a cancerous tumor include rapid growth, pain, facial weakness, a lump that is fixed to surrounding tissue, or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.
Causes
The exact cause of most salivary gland tumors is not known. They form when cells in a gland develop changes that cause them to grow and multiply abnormally, creating a mass.
Certain factors are associated with a higher risk, most notably previous radiation exposure to the head and neck. Beyond this, the reasons one person develops a tumor and another does not are usually unclear. They are not contagious, and everyday habits are not established causes, although tobacco and alcohol are linked to other head and neck cancers.
Risk Factors
- Older age, although tumors can occur at any age
- Prior radiation treatment to the head or neck
- Certain workplace exposures that have been linked to salivary cancers in some studies
- A family history of salivary gland tumors in rare cases
Diagnosis
Evaluation begins with a physical exam of the face, mouth, and neck. Tests may include:
- Imaging: Ultrasound, CT, or MRI to show the size, location, and extent of the tumor.
- Fine-needle aspiration biopsy: A thin needle removes cells from the lump so they can be examined under a microscope to determine whether the tumor is benign or cancerous.
- Additional biopsy or imaging: Sometimes needed to plan treatment, especially if cancer is suspected.
The biopsy is central, because it guides whether and how aggressively the tumor is treated.
Treatment
Treatment depends on whether the tumor is benign or cancerous, its location, and its size.
- Surgery: The main treatment for most salivary gland tumors is removal. For parotid tumors, the surgeon takes special care to protect the nearby facial nerve.
- Radiation therapy: May be used after surgery for cancers, for tumors that cannot be fully removed, or in people who cannot have surgery.
- Chemotherapy: Sometimes used for advanced or spread cancers, often in combination with other treatments.
Most benign tumors are cured by complete removal. For cancers, outlook depends on the type and stage and is best discussed with the treating specialists.
Prevention
There is no proven way to prevent salivary gland tumors, since the cause of most is unknown. Sensible general measures may lower overall head and neck cancer risk and support early detection:
- Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol
- Discuss the risks and benefits of radiation if it is recommended for another condition
- Report any new, persistent lump near the jaw, ear, or mouth promptly so it can be checked
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if you notice a lump or swelling near your ear, jaw, mouth, or neck that does not go away within a couple of weeks. Have it evaluated sooner if the lump grows quickly, becomes painful, or is associated with facial numbness or weakness, or with difficulty swallowing or opening your mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are most salivary gland tumors cancerous?
No. Most salivary gland tumors, especially those in the parotid gland, are benign and do not spread. However, a lump cannot be judged by feel alone, so a biopsy is usually needed to confirm whether it is benign or cancerous.
What does a salivary gland tumor feel like?
It usually feels like a firm, slow-growing, painless lump near the ear, jaw, mouth, or neck. Warning signs that warrant prompt evaluation include rapid growth, pain, facial numbness or weakness, or a lump that feels fixed to surrounding tissue.
How are salivary gland tumors treated?
Surgery to remove the tumor is the main treatment for most cases. For cancers, radiation therapy and sometimes chemotherapy may be added. Benign tumors are usually cured by complete removal.
Will surgery affect my face?
Parotid surgery is done carefully to protect the facial nerve, which controls movement on that side of the face. Temporary weakness can occur, and your surgeon will discuss the specific risks for your situation before the operation.
Can salivary gland tumors come back?
Some benign and cancerous tumors can return, which is why follow-up after treatment is important. The chance of recurrence depends on the tumor type and whether it was completely removed; your care team can explain your individual risk.
References
- National Cancer Institute. Salivary Gland Cancer Treatment.
- Mayo Clinic. Salivary gland tumors — Symptoms and causes.
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine. Salivary gland tumors.
- American Cancer Society. Salivary Gland Cancer.