Parotid tumors are the most common type of salivary gland tumors, comprising 80 to 85 percent of all salivary gland tumors. While the majority of parotid tumors are benign, approximately 25 percent of salivary gland tumors in the parotid glands are malignant.
The parotid glands, situated in front of the ears on each side of the face, are the largest of the major salivary glands. They play a crucial role in producing saliva to aid in chewing and digestion.
Parotid tumors can manifest in various ways. If you have a parotid tumor, you may notice a mass or swelling in your jaw area, which may or may not be accompanied by pain. Malignant tumors can also affect the facial nerves, leading to pain, numbness, a burning or prickling sensation, or loss of facial movement.
Diagnosis of a parotid tumor typically involves the following tests and procedures:
Physical exam: Your doctor will examine your jaw, neck, and throat to check for lumps or swelling.
Tissue sample collection: A biopsy may be recommended to collect a sample of tissue from the tumor for laboratory testing, aiming to determine if it is cancerous.
Imaging tests: In cases of malignant parotid tumors, imaging tests like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT) scans can help determine the size and location of the cancer.
Treatment for parotid tumors usually involves surgery to remove all or part of the parotid gland (parotidectomy). Special precautions are taken during the surgery to avoid damaging the facial nerve that runs through the gland, as it controls facial expressions and movement. In cases of malignant parotid tumors, radiation therapy may also be recommended. Chemotherapy, however, has shown limited effectiveness in treating this type of cancer