What is Salivary Gland Cancer?

Salivary gland cancer is a very rare form of cancer which originates in the salivary glands which line the mouth. Most of the tumors which occur in or around the salivary glands are benign, but occasionally they can be malignant, causing a patient to develop salivary gland cancer. The prognosis for patients with this cancer can be quite excellent if it is caught in the early stages and the treatment provided is appropriate.

The symptoms of salivary gland cancer include swelling and noticeable changes in the face, along with numbness of the face, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty speaking. A doctor can examine the patient and use various medical imaging studies to look at the salivary glands for signs of abnormalities. A sialogram, an x-ray of the salivary glands and related areas, is a common diagnostic tool, and patients may also be given MRIs, CT scans, and other procedures so that the doctor can get a complete image of the cancer. Biopsies can also be used to learn more about the cancerous growth.

Treatment usually starts with removal of the tumor. If the tumor is small, surgery may be all that is required. Larger tumors may require reconstructive surgery in cases where it is necessary for the surgeon to remove surrounding bone or tissue, and the patient may need speech therapy and physical therapy to adjust after the surgery. Biopsy or removal of the neighboring lymph nodes may also be included in treatment if there are fears that the cancer has spread.

Radiation treatment can also help with salivary gland cancer. Radiation will kill rogue cells which were not successfully removed by the surgeon, and it can prevent the recurrence of the cancer. The primary risk of radiation is the increased risk of developing secondary tumors. The benefit of receiving radiation to kill an existing cancer is usually viewed as worth the potential risk of possibly developing a new cancer in the future, and the delivery of radiation is constantly being refined to minimize associated dangers.

People with a family history of salivary gland cancer are more likely to develop it, as are people who use tobacco products or who have been exposed to radiation. While few steps can be taken to reduce the risk of developing this rare cancer, people can increase the possibility of successful treatment by being aware of changes around their heads and necks, and meeting with a doctor if symptoms of salivary gland cancer emerge.