Salivary gland malignancy is a rare type of cancer that affects a tiny percentage of the population. These cancers usually affect the major salivary glands that produce saliva in the mouth.

Although rare and difficult to diagnose, the incidence of salivary gland cancer has been increasing rapidly globally which is a major concern for the medical fraternity. Below we discuss the rapid growth of salivary gland malignancy, its causes, prevention and treatment methods.

What are the types of Salivary Gland Malignancies?

There are various types of salivary gland malignancies based on their location and type of cell affected.

1. Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma is the most common type of salivary gland malignancy, accounting for about 30 to 35 percent of cases. This type mainly affects the parotid gland.

2. Adenocarcinoma

Adenocarcinoma occurs in the salivary gland ducts and can affect the major and minor salivary glands.

3. Acinar Cell Carcinomas

Acinar cell carcinomas are cancers that affect the cells that produce saliva in the gland.

4. Salivary Duct Carcinoma

Salivary duct carcinoma is a rare and aggressive cancer that originates in the salivary ducts and can develop rapidly.

What Causes Salivary Gland Malignancies?

The causes of salivary gland malignancies are not always evident. However, certain risks factors increase the chances of developing this type of cancer. These are:.

Smoking and using other tobacco products
Extreme Alcohol Consumption
Exposure to Radiation
Inherited Genetic Syndromes
Workplace Exposure to Carcinogens
Having a Weak Immune System

Salivary Gland Malignancies: Symptoms and Diagnoses

The symptoms of the salivary gland cancer depend on the type of cancer and the location of the gland affected. Some common symptoms may include;.

A lump or swelling in the jaw or mouth
Facial numbness or weakness
Difficulty moving the mouth, jaw, or tongue
Facial Pain
Fluid drainage
Difficulty swallowing
Hearing loss
Change in voice

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor might recommend some diagnostic tests such as;.

Blood tests
Imaging tests such as CT scan, MRI scan or X-rays
Tissue Biopsy

Treatment of Salivary Gland Cancers

The treatment of salivary gland malignancy depends on the size, stage, location of the tumor and how well the cancer cells are responding to treatment. The following are some of the treatment options:.

Surgery

Surgery is the most effective treatment of salivary gland cancers. This treatment involves removing the cancerous tissue and the gland where the cancer originated.

If a major salivary gland is affected by cancer, surgical intervention might involve removing a part of the jaw bone, facial nerves and muscles. If the cancer is in its early stages, surgical intervention might mean removing only the affected part of the gland.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is the use of high-powered X-rays to destroy the cancer cells. It’s usually a treatment option when surgery is not recommended. Radiation therapy is also helpful if the cancer cells were not entirely removed during surgery.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves using drugs to destroy the cancer cells. This treatment option is usually used in conjunction with radiation therapy to shrink the tumor before surgery.

Preventing Salivary Gland Malignancy

There’s no proven way to prevent the development of salivary gland malignancy. However, one can reduce the risk of developing most types of cancers by:.

Eating a healthy balanced diet
Exercise Regularly
Avoiding Tobacco Products and Limiting Alcohol Consumption
Protecting yourself from the sun

Conclusion

Salivary gland malignancy is a rare type of head and neck cancers that can cause a lot of discomfort.

The rapid increase of salivary gland cancer globally is concerning, but with early diagnosis and proper management, patients can lead a fulfilling life.