Showing papers on "Major Salivary Gland published in 2008"

Ultrasonography of salivary glands -- a highly specific imaging procedure for diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To verify ultrasonographic criteria for examination of the major salivary glands in diagnosis of primary and secondary Sjogren's syndrome (SS). METHODS: Three hundred sixteen consecutive patients with rheumatic diseases were selected according to the European Consensus Study Group diagnostic criteria for SS. Fifty-seven had primary SS, 33 had secondary SS, 78 had Sicca symptoms, and 148 patients served as asymptomatic controls. This cohort was analyzed for size and parenchymal echogenicity of the major salivary glands by ultrasonography. RESULTS: Evident parenchymal inhomogenicity in 2 or more major salivary glands was detected by ultrasonography in patients with primary and secondary SS with a sensitivity of 63.1% and 63.6%, respectively. The specificity of this imaging approach in our cohort was 98.7%. The volume of submandibular glands was reduced in patients with primary and secondary SS by about 30% compared to patients with sicca symptoms and asymptomatic controls. In receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, the detection of reduced volumes of both submandibular glands in patients with primary and secondary SS had a specificity of 93% and a sensitivity of 48% at the cutoff point of 3.0 ml. Of note, the volume of the parotid glands did not differ between the groups of patients. In patients with primary SS, parenchymal inhomogenicity of the salivary glands was strongly associated with positivity for anti-Ro and/or anti-La antibodies. CONCLUSION: Ultrasonographic detection of parenchymal inhomogenicity of the major salivary glands and observation of reduced volume of the submandibular glands resulted in high specificities for diagnosis of primary and secondary SS. The data indicate that ultrasonography of major salivary glands is a noninvasive imaging procedure with high diagnostic value for the diagnosis of primary and secondary SS.

Sialendoscopy and associated complications: a preliminary experience.

Abstract: Objectives/Hypothesis: To review our experience with diagnostic and therapeutic sialendoscopy for the management of major salivary gland disorders with respect to complications and also to validate its use in our patient population. Study Design: Retrospective chart review. Methods: We identified 56 consecutive cases of sialendoscopy procedures performed over 2 years in the Department of Otolaryngology at the University of Pittsburgh from July 2005 to August 2007. Results: The mean age of presentation was 43 (range, 7–77) years, with a male to female sex ratio of 1:2. The most common indications included sialolithiasis (52%) followed by salivary gland swelling (16%). The average size of the stones ranged from 2 to 12 mm. The overall success rate for endoscopic stone removal was 74% (14 of 19). Three (3 of 29) patients required a planned combined technique for stone removal. The overall complication rate was 25% (14 of 56). The major and minor complication rates were 2% (1 of 56) and 23% (13 of 56), respectively. Conclusions: Sialendoscopy is a safe and effective technology for treating major salivary gland disorders. In the early phases of sequential learning, complications rates are significant. However, major complications are infrequent and in general can be salvaged by standard salivary gland surgery.

Epithelial tumors of the lacrimal gland: an update

Abstract: Purpose of review The goal of this article is to offer an update on the treatment and prognosis of the most common epithelial tumors of the lacrimal gland, report on new pathological entities and offer a review of the classification of lacrimal gland tumors. Recent findings Improvements have been made in the understanding of lacrimal gland lesions with the knowledge that lacrimal gland tumors compare to the more common counterparts of the major salivary glands. Therefore, the WHO's classification of salivary gland tumors has been adapted to the lacrimal gland pathology. Until recently, primary adenocarcinomas of the lacrimal gland were not further subclassified, but they can now be divided into low-grade and high-grade malignancies. The adjunctive use of intra-arterial cytoreductive chemotherapy for the management of adenoid cystic carcinoma is one of the most important advancements on the management of these aggressive tumors. Another important step forward has been taken on carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma of the lacrimal gland, which is subclassified into noninvasive carcinoma, with an excellent prognosis after complete excision and invasive carcinoma for which the prognosis is still guarded despite adjunctive radiotherapy. Summary This article offers an update on diagnosis, classification and treatment of common and rare epithelial lacrimal gland tumors.

Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate major salivary gland function before and after radiotherapy

Abstract: Purpose To evaluate diffusion-weighted (DW)-MRI as a noninvasive tool to investigate major salivary gland function before and after radiotherapy (RT) for head and neck cancer (HNC). Methods and Materials DW-MRI was performed in 8 HNC patients before and after parotid-sparing RT (mean dose to the contralateral parotid gland Results Before RT, the mean ADC value at rest was significantly lower in the parotid than in the submandibular glands. During the first 5 min of stimulation, the ADC value of the salivary glands showed a decrease, followed by a steady increase until a peak ADC, significantly higher than the baseline value, was reached after a median of 17 min. The baseline ADC value at rest was significantly higher after RT than before RT in the nonspared salivary glands but not in the spared parotid glands. In the contralateral parotid glands, the same response was seen as before RT. This pattern was completely lost in the nonspared glands. These results corresponded with remaining or loss of salivary function, respectively, as confirmed by salivary gland scintigraphy. Conclusions Diffusion-weighted-MRI allows noninvasive evaluation of functional changes in the major salivary glands after RT and is a promising tool for investigating radiation-induced xerostomia.

Management and outcome of patients with mucoepidermoid carcinoma of major salivary gland origin: a single institution's 30-year experience.

Abstract: Background: Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is one of the most frequent epithelial malignancies of the salivary glands. Prediction of clinical outcome of MEC is challenging. Material and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 52 cases of MEC of major salivary gland origin diagnosed at the Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland, during a 30-year period of 1976 to 2005. Criteria used for diagnosis were those of World Health Organization classifications valid at each time point, and criteria for grading were those recommended by Armed Forces Institute of Pathology fascicle (1996). Since 1993, the degree of cell proliferation was used at our institution as an adjunct tool when grading MEC. The majority of cases occurred in the parotid gland (n = 47, 90%) followed by the submandibular gland (n = 5, 10%). Results: We had 39% high-grade (HG), 14% intermediate-grade (IMG), and 44% low-grade (LG) MECs. T categories were T1, n = 18; T2, n = 16; T3, n = 9; T4, n = 9. Forty-nine (94%) patients were treated with curative intent. These patients underwent surgery, and 24 (49%) patients received postoperative radiotherapy. Follow-up time varied from 6 months to 9 years. Forty-five percent of HG-MEC patients and 67% of IMG-MEC patients developed locoregional failures or distant metastases during a 3-year follow-up as opposed to none of the LG-MEC patients. Of MEC patients with N0 neck, two HG-MEC patients and one IMG-MEC (8%) patient developed regional recurrence during follow-up. Conclusions: Patient outcome in the different grades of MEC suggests a need for overview of the treatment protocol, especially with regard to LG-MEC and IMG-MEC. The apparently unusual occurrence of locoregional failures and metastases in LG-MEC suggests a restrictive approach in surgical management. However, the frequent occurrence of such failures in IMG-MEC warrants an aggressive approach with these tumors.

Association between salivary flow rates, oral symptoms, and oral mucosal status.

Abstract: Objective To investigate the association of salivary flow rates with oral symptoms and oral mucosal status. Study design The study population included 462 Israeli subjects attending a xerostomia clinic. After patient history and oral mucosal examination, major gland sialometry, and complementary tests, patients were divided into 6 groups: drug-induced salivary gland hypofunction (SGH), Sjogren syndrome (SS), radiation-induced SGH, idiopathic SGH, xerostomia without SGH, and control. Results Oral mucosal alterations were more prevalent in all SGH groups than in the control group. Oral symptoms (except speech impairment) were more frequent in all SGH groups. The postradiation group showed the highest frequency of oral mucosal alterations and of swallowing and mastication complaints. Individuals complaining of xerostomia (compared with those who did not) displayed lower major salivary gland flow rates and a higher frequency of oral mucosal alterations Conclusions Presence of oral mucosal alterations may help but are not enough to identify patients for further evaluation of SGH. Difficulties in mastication and swallowing are most specifically related to advanced SGH.

Mesenchymal neoplasms of the major salivary glands : clinicopathological features of 18 cases

Abstract: Non-lymphoid mesenchymal neoplasms of salivary gland origin are rare, accounting for 1.9-5% of major salivary gland tumors. We describe the clinico-pathologic features of 18 cases of mesenchymal neoplasms of the major salivary glands experienced at Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea, from 1998 to 2004. Mesenchymal neoplasms accounted for 3.4% of the total of 524 major salivary gland tumors. The parotid gland was the preponderant site (15 cases). Thirteen tumors were benign, constituting 3.5% of the total of 371 benign neoplasms. Schwannomas were the most common benign tumors (six cases), followed by lipomas (three cases), plexiform neurofibroma, hemangioma, desmoid tumor, and solitary fibrous tumor (one each). The malignant tumors consisted of one dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, synovial sarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, pleomorphic liposarcoma and desmoplastic small round cell tumor each. Immunohisto-chemical analysis for the expresssion of vimentin, actin, desmin, neuron-specific enolase, keratin, CD34, CD99 and bcl-2 contributed to the differential diagnoses. Genetic analysis for fusion transcripts was conclusive in the diagnosis of desmoplastic small round cell tumor, which is extremely rare at this location. Pre-operative imaging study and fine needle aspiration cytology had limitations in prediction of the mesenchymal nature of the tumors, due to either low index of suspicion, similarities to mixed tumors, or specimen inadequacy. Awareness of the development of various mesenchymal tumors in the major salivary glands could increase the accuracy of preoperative and postoperative diagnosis, and therapeutic efficacy.

Mesenchymal neoplasms of the major salivary glands: clinicopathological features of 18 cases.

Abstract: Non-lymphoid mesenchymal neoplasms of salivary gland origin are rare, accounting for 1.9–5% of major salivary gland tumors. We describe the clinico-pathologic features of 18 cases of mesenchymal neoplasms of the major salivary glands experienced at Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea, from 1998 to 2004. Mesenchymal neoplasms accounted for 3.4% of the total of 524 major salivary gland tumors. The parotid gland was the preponderant site (15 cases). Thirteen tumors were benign, constituting 3.5% of the total of 371 benign neoplasms. Schwannomas were the most common benign tumors (six cases), followed by lipomas (three cases), plexiform neurofibroma, hemangioma, desmoid tumor, and solitary fibrous tumor (one each). The malignant tumors consisted of one dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, synovial sarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, pleomorphic liposarcoma and desmoplastic small round cell tumor each. Immunohistochemical analysis for the expresssion of vimentin, actin, desmin, neuron-specific enolase, keratin, CD34, CD99 and bcl-2 contributed to the differential diagnoses. Genetic analysis for fusion transcripts was conclusive in the diagnosis of desmoplastic small round cell tumor, which is extremely rare at this location. Pre-operative imaging study and fine needle aspiration cytology had limitations in prediction of the mesenchymal nature of the tumors, due to either low index of suspicion, similarities to mixed tumors, or specimen inadequacy. Awareness of the development of various mesenchymal tumors in the major salivary glands could increase the accuracy of preoperative and postoperative diagnosis, and therapeutic efficacy.

Major salivary gland output differs between users and non-users of specific medication categories.

Abstract: Background: The intake of medications is a major aetiologic factor of xerostomia. The purpose of this study was to investigate the selective influence of medication categories on flow rates of individual major salivary glands. Methods: The effect of each medication category on salivary flow rates was determined by dichotomy comparisons between users and non-users. A total of 246 patients were included, 79 males and 167 females aged 13–92 years (mean 63 years). Of these, 200 used medications, which were grouped according to their category. A comprehensive medical and oral examination was performed. Both unstimulated and stimulated saliva was collected separately from the parotid and submandibular/sublingual glands. Results: Parotid flow rate was decreased among users of tranquillisers and sedatives (unstimulated flow), cardiovascular drugs and gastrointestinal drugs (stimulated flow). Submandibular/sublingual unstimulated output was lower in patients taking cardiovascular drugs, antihistamines, tranquillisers/sedatives and antidepressants, while the stimulated flow, in those taking cardiovascular drugs, antihistamines, tranquillisers/sedatives and gastrointestinal drugs. Conclusions: Users of many common medication categories display significantly reduced unstimulated and/or stimulated salivary flow rate from the major salivary glands compared with non-users. A larger number of medication categories are associated with reductions in salivary flow rate from submandibular/sublingual glands than parotid glands.

Sialosis: 35 cases of persistent parotid swelling from two countries.

Abstract: Diffuse, non-inflammatory, non-neoplastic enlargement of the major salivary glands (sialosis) is uncommon and has various systemic causes. This paper examines 35 patients whose persistent swelling of the parotid was diagnosed as sialosis, and shows that diabetes mellitus and alcoholism are the most common causes.

Histochemical comparison of mucous secretions in rodent, carnivore, ungulate, and primate major salivary glands.

Abstract: Much of the recent literature on the histochemistry of epithelial mucins is concerned with the identification and characterization of acidic carbohydrate moieties. From the neuraminidase (sialidase) studies of Spicer and Warren (1960) and Warren and Spicer (1961) it is evident that sialic acid is responsible for most of the colloidal iron and Alcian blue staining of salivary gland mucins in certain animals. These findings are of particular importance to investigators interested in the dependency of commonly used staining reactions on the presence of acidic groups. To this end Schackleford (1962) introduced “foreign” carboxyl groups into tissue sections by reacting p-hydrazinobenzoic acid (NHZNHCJ34COOH) with periodate-oxidized 1 ) 2-glycols. Similarly sulfonic acid groups can be studied after treatment of sections with p-hydrazinobenzenesulfonic acid (NH~NHCJ~~SOZH) (FIGURES 1 to 12). Both these compounds produce marked staining changes at sites of mucous secretions. Carboxylation can also be accomplished with the use of phthalic anhydride, but the method of action here is somewhat different from that of the hydrazine compounds. Phthalic anhydride probably reacts with hydroxyl groups and at the same time forms a carboxyl group which is available for histochemical study.

Saliva in Health and Disease, Chemical Biology of

Abstract: Saliva is a bodily fluid secreted by three pairs of major salivary glands (parotid submandibular and sublingual) and by many of minor salivary glands. Saliva is supplemented with several constituents that originate from blood serum, from intact or destroyed mucosal and immune cells, and from intact or destroyed oral microorganisms that result in a complex mixture of a variety of molecules. Saliva plays an important role in acquired pellicle formation on tooth surfaces, crystal growth homeostasis, bacterial adhesion, plaque formation, and—because of its lubricating effect—in maintaining mucosal integrity of the oral and upper gastrointestinal mucosal surfaces. It also plays an important role in physico-chemical defense, antimicrobial defense, and wound healing. Many saliva constituents including proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and ions interact under fine regulation to fulfill these important tasks. Local and systemic disorders may disturb and interrupt these complex balanced functions, which can lead to mucosal and tooth damages. In other cases, systemic disorders induce salivary changes without any significant local effects. Many such changes are of high diagnostic interest because they can be rather specific to the causing conditions and can be used for screening and early diagnosis of several local and systemic disorders.

Correlation between FDG-PET findings and GLUT1 expression in salivary gland pleomorphic adenomas

Abstract: Objective One reason for the difficulty in accurate preoperative pathological diagnosis of major salivary gland tumors with fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) is the tendency of pleomorphic adenomas to have a high, standardized uptake value (SUV). The expression of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) and the quantity of GLUT1 messenger RNA (mRNA) were analyzed in specimens of pleomorphic adenoma to identify whether GLUT1 is responsible for the increased glucose uptake in FDG-PET examinations of these tumors.

Primary non‐hodgkin's lymphomas of the major salivary glands

Abstract: Background The clinical course of primary salivary gland lymphomas has received little attention. Methods We retrospectively assessed 20 patients with previously untreated non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHLs) and histologically confirmed as having parenchymal involvement of the salivary glands. The clinical presentation, therapy, and outcomes were compared between the 12 patients with mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphomas and the 8 patients with other NHLs. Results At diagnosis, the 12 patients with MALT lymphoma had a greater mean age and longer duration than did the 8 patients with other NHLs (P < 0.05). Eight of the 12 MALT lymphoma patients had recurrent episodes of salivary gland swelling and 5 had myoepithelial sialadenitis, Sjogren syndrome, or gastric MALT lymphoma; these were not observed in the 8 other NHL patients. Compared with the latter group, the MALT lymphoma group had significantly greater five-year relapse-free (37.5% vs. 91.7%, P < 0.05) and disease-free (35.0% vs. 90.9%, P < 0.05) survival rates. However, two MALT lymphoma patients with high-grade transformation had recurrences beyond the head and neck region. Conclusion Understanding the distinct clinical presentation and course of primary salivary gland lymphomas may help guide the proper diagnosis and management of patients with these tumors. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;97:35–39. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Heterotopic salivary gland tissue in the neck

Abstract: Heterotopic salivary gland tissue (HSGT) consists of salivary tissue outside of the major and minor salivary glands and typically presents as a draining sinus and/or asymptomatic nodule of the neck along the lower anterior sternocleidomastoid muscle. There are a limited number of case series exploring this rare entity. To further delineate the clinicopathologic characteristics of this lesion, we present 11 cases of HSGT in the neck, many with cutaneous involvement. Anatomic pathology files from Lifespan-affiliated hospitals (Rhode Island Hospital and Miriam Hospital) were retrospectively reviewed for all cases meeting criteria for HSGT from 1983 through 2005, and 11 patients were identified: 4 female and 7 male, ages 5 months to 64 years, with 8 patients younger than 18 years; 7 patients presented with a draining sinus. Of note, 8 of 11 cases occurred on the right side. In general, microscopic examination revealed mucinous and serous salivary glandular structures with an associated duct; no cytologic atypia was observed. All cases stained positive for smooth muscle actin and calponin, highlighting a myoepithelial layer similar to that seen in minor and major salivary glands. As in our series, most cases of cervical HSGT occur near the anterior sternocleidomastoid muscle with a right-sided predilection. Cases generally present by early childhood, although 3 cases in our series were diagnosed in adulthood. Although cancers arising in these lesions are fairly uncommon, most clinically apparent foci of HSGT are excised. This entity should be considered in the dermatologist's differential diagnostic considerations for a draining sinus and a lateral, especially right-sided, neck mass.

Human Kallikrein 8 Expression in Salivary Gland Tumors

Abstract: The human kallikrein 8 protein (KLK8) is expressed in many normal tissues including esophagus, skin, testis, tonsil, kidney, breast, and salivary gland, and is found in biological fluids including breast milk, amniotic fluid, seminal fluid and serum. It has also been shown to be a biomarker and prognostic factor for breast cancer. The aim of this study was to determine whether KLK8 is expressed in salivary gland tissues and salivary gland tumors (both benign and malignant), in order to compare normal with tumor tissues. Pleomorphic adenomas, adenoid cystic carcinomas, polymorphous low grade adenocarcinomas, acinic cell carcinomas, mucoepidermoid carcinomas, and adenocarcinomas NOS of both minor and major salivary glands were examined. The results of this study indicate that most salivary gland tumors show high levels of expression of KLK8.

Transplantation of the major salivary glands.

Abstract: Background: In absolute aqueous-deficient dry eye, severe signs and symptoms may persist despite punctal occlusion and frequent application of artificial tear substitutes. In this group of patients

Accessory parotid gland lesions: case report and review of literature

Abstract: There are numerous causes for chronic cheek swelling, including masseteric hypertrophy, lymphadenopathy, diffuse inflammatory changes and neoplasia. We report an unusual case of a recurrent swelling as the result of sialolithiasis of an accessory parotid gland, which lay isolated from the main parotid gland along the Stensen's duct. The calculi developed in the accessory salivary tissue whereas all major salivary glands presented without sialolithiasis. Clinical findings as well as imaging results are shown and surgical management and histopathology are discussed. Hereby, for the first time we report a case with multiple calculi in an accessory parotid gland removed via a standard parotid incision. Further to this, we give a comprehensive review of literature on accessory parotid gland lesions.

Increased major salivary gland secretion in familial dysautonomia

Abstract: Familial dysautonomia (FD), an autosomal recessive peripheral nervous system disorder, affects almost exclusively children of Jewish Ashkenazi origin and causes profound generalized autonomic dysfunction. Excessive drooling is frequent and is traditionally attributed to swallowing difficulties. Although true hypersalivation has been postulated, no quantitative assessment of the salivary secretion rate has yet been reported. The authors determined this rate in 13 children with FD and 28 healthy controls. Resting parotid, submandibular/sublingual and unstimulated whole salivary secretion rates were significantly elevated in children with FD. The known relation of salivary function with age was found in controls only. This apparently major contribution of salivary hyperfunction to excessive drooling in FD may be attributable to salivary gland denervation supersensitivity, as this mechanism is present in the cardiovascular system and the pupil in FD.

Pleomorphic adenoma of the nasal columella

Abstract: Pleomorphic adenoma (mixed tumor) is the most common benign neoplasm of the salivary glands. It is considered to occur primarily in the major salivary glands, such as the parotid and submandibular glands. It is much less common in the minor salivary glands, and rarely occurs at other sites, such as larynx, pharynx, trachea, lacrimal gland, and sinonasal tract. An external nose localization of this lesion is very rare. Irrespective of the site where the lesion originates, its preferred treatment should be surgery. We describe a very rare case of recurrent pleomorphic adenoma originating from the columella.

[Salivary gland tumors in the County of Funen, 1984-2003].

Abstract: INTRODUCTION The objective of this study is to estimate the incidence of major salivary gland tumors in a geographically well-defined area (the County of Funen, Denmark) and to analyse the demographic data and distribution of histological types. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients with salivary gland tumors were identified through a search on pathology and diagnosis codes in the period 1984-2003, which initially resulted in a group of 951 patients. Of these a total of 682 patients (72%) fulfilled the criteria for inclusion. RESULTS The incidence of major salivary gland tumors for the County of Funen is calculated to 7.3 per 100,000 residents per year. The material consisted of 372 females (55%) and 310 males (45%), with a median age of 56 years. Pleomorphic adenoma (55%) was the most common type, followed by adenolymphoma (29%). 90% of the tumors were found in the parotid gland - 93% benign and 7% malignant. 10% were located in the submandibular gland - 73% benign and 27% malignant. Only one neoplasm was located in the sublingual gland and it was malignant (100%). The older group harboured significantly more malignant neoplasms (12%) than the younger group (7%). The occurrence of pleomorphic adenomas among females (66%) was higher than among males (43%), on the other hand more adenolymphomas were found in males (43%) than in females (17%). CONCLUSION The incidence of major salivary gland tumors in the County of Funen is calculated to 7.3 per 100,000 inhabitants per year which is equivalent to 383 new cases in Denmark per year.

Bilateral multinodular oncocytomas of the parotid arising in a background of bilateral oncocytic nodular hyperplasia.

Abstract: Oncocytic tumors of the major salivary glands are rare, accounting for less than 1% of all salivary gland tumors When they do occur, these neoplasms typically present as solitary nodules that affect only one major salivary gland, usually the parotid Multiple bilateral multinodular tumors are rare We report the case of a 53-year-old woman with a case of synchronous multiple bilateral multinodular oncocytomas that arose in a background of bilateral oncocytic nodular hyperplasia in the parotid glands The patient underwent superficial parotid resections, and at the 4-year follow-up, she exhibited no evidence of recurrence

Electron microscopic detection of statherin in secretory granules of human major salivary glands

Abstract: In order to increase current knowledge regarding statherin secretion into the oral cavity, ultrastructural localization of this peptide was investigated in human salivary glands by using a post-embedding immunogold staining technique. Statherin reactivity was found inside the granules of serous cells of parotid and submandibular glands. In parotid granules immunostaining was preferentially present in the less electron-dense region, whereas in submandibular serous granules the reactivity was uniform and the dense core always stained. By contrast, none or weak reactivity was observed in serous cells of major sublingual glands. These findings reveal for the first time the subcellular localization of statherin by electron transmission microscopy and confirm that of the three major types of salivary glands, the parotid and submandibular glands are the greatest source of salivary statherin. Moreover, they suggest that more than one packaging mechanism may be involved in the storage of statherin within serous granules of salivary glands.

A case of giant pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland

Abstract: Introduction A case of pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland was reported. Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common benign tumor of the major salivary glands. A review of the literature confirms that this kind of tumor is less common in the minor salivary glands. We described statistic population, types of the diagnostic, treatment and clinical course of pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland. Material and method We encountered such a tumor in a 55-year-old woman who was admitted to our Hospital. The only symptom was significant face deformation, growing for 30 years. Results The tumor was located under the right side of the face and was removed surgically. No complications were observed in the postoperative course but paresis of the facial nerve occurred. The patient was discharged from the hospital with the recommendation of facial muscles rehabilitation. After the two months from the surgery, paresis was diminished. Afterwards contact with the patient got lost. Conclusion Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common benign tumor of the major salivary glands. Surgery is the main method of the treatment. The most common complication is paresis of the facial nerve.