Salivary gland tumours are uncommon and account for just 6% of all head and neck neoplasms. Worldwide incidence varies, from 0.4 to 13.5 cases per 100 000 population. The parotid gland is by far the most commonly affected site, accounting for 80% of cases. The vast majority of these tumours are benign; only approximately 20–25% being malignant. This article considers the relevant clinical anatomy of the parotid gland, key aspects of assessment with history and examination, and when to refer to secondary care for further investigation. It will touch on the common benign and malignant parotid neoplasms and give an overview of secondary care management.
AbstractThe ultrastructural, X-ray microanalytical, histochemical and immunocytochemi-cal features of intraluminal crystalloids found in adenocarcinomas of the parotid gland have been studied. The crystalloids, putatively derived from an abnormal crystalization of salivary duct proteins, are considerably different from the crystalloids found in normal parotid glands, pleomorphic adenomas, and sialocysts.
Sonographic Features of Salivary Gland Tumours
