Salivary gland tumors

Definition

Salivary gland tumors are abnormal cells growing in the ducts that drain the salivary glands.

Alternative Names

Causes

The salivary glands are located around the mouth. They produce saliva, which moistens food to aid chewing and swallowing. Saliva contains enzymes that begin the digestion process, and helps cleanse the mouth by washing away bacteria and food particles. By keeping the mouth moist, saliva helps to keep dentures, retainers, or other orthodontic appliances in place.

There are three pairs of major salivary glands. The largest are the parotid glands, located in each cheek over the jaw in front of the ears. Two submandibular glands are at the back of the mouth on both sides of the jaw. Two sublingual glands are under the floor of the mouth. All of the salivary glands empty saliva into the mouth through ducts that open at various locations in the mouth.

Salivary gland tumors are rare, especially in children. Swelling of the salivary glands is most commonly due to salivary gland infections, salivary duct stones, cirrhosis of the liver, sarcoidosis, abdominal surgery, other cancers, Sjögren syndrome, and infections.

The most common type of salivary duct tumor is a slow-growing tumor of the parotid gland. This is usually a non-cancerous growth that gradually increases the size of the gland. However, some can be cancerous.

Malignant salivary gland tumors are usually carcinomas.