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Cancer of the Parotid Gland
Tumour of the salivary glands may affect
- Parotid gland- just in front of the ear
- Submandibular gland- below the jaw line
- Lingual gland – under the side of the tongue
Fortunately most tumours of the parotid and submandibular gland are benign (Pleomorphic Adenoma, Warthin Tumour). Approximately 20% are malignant or cancerous, either arising form the gland or represent a metastasis form elsewhere. The most common is from the skin of the head and neck region.
Symptoms of Salivary Tumour
- A lump in front or below the ear or below the jaw
- Pain
- Paralysed face or weakness of facial movement
Diagnosis of Salivary Tumour
Most salivary tumour is diagnosed by using an ultrasound and / or CT scan or PET scan to characterize the tumour and fine needle aspiration to obtain tissue for more precise tumour typing.
Treatment of Salivary Gland Tumour
The primary treatment methods for salivary tumour are:
- Surgery – is the main treatment. Most cases are curative
- Radiotherapy – is an additional therapy in certain cancer type only
- Chemotherapy – is rarely used and only for certain type of cancer
Follow up Care
You will have follow-up visits, routine exams and blood tests to:
- Check for any recurrence
- Chest X-ray, CT scan for recurrence – if required
- Blood count and liver function
Benign tumours are follow-up for 1-2 years and malignant neoplasms are for 5 years.
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