Overview

Salivary gland cancer treatment presents unique challenges due to its complexity and varied manifestations. One of the challenges stems from the fact that salivary gland cancer can affect different types of salivary glands, including major and minor glands located throughout the mouth and throat. Recognising this complexity is paramount for the right treatment. At Max Hospitals, we take a personalised and multidisciplinary approach to address each case uniquely. Our dedicated team of experienced physicians, oncologists, and support staff leverage their extensive expertise and innovative techniques. Their commitment is to deliver superior results and help people diagnosed with salivary gland cancer in regaining the best possible quality of life.

What are Salivary Glands?

Salivary glands are a group of glands located in and around the oral cavity (mouth) and upper digestive tract. Their primary function is to produce saliva, a fluid that plays several important roles in digestion and oral health.

Saliva contains enzymes that help break down food, making it easier to swallow and digest. It also helps to lubricate the mouth, making it easier to speak and swallow. Apart from enzymes it also contains antibodies and proteins that protect the teeth and gums from bacteria, helping to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

There are three pairs of major salivary glands:

• Parotid glands: These are the largest salivary glands and are located on each side of the face in front of the ears.
• Submandibular glands: These glands are located beneath the lower jawbone and produce saliva that drains into the mouth through ducts located under the tongue.
• Sublingual glands: These glands are located beneath the tongue and produce saliva that drains into the mouth through several small ducts.

In addition to these major salivary glands, there are also numerous minor salivary glands located throughout the lining of the mouth and throat.

What is Salivary Gland Cancer?

Salivary gland cancer, also known as salivary gland tumour, is a condition characterised by the abnormal growth of cells within the salivary glands, and is relatively rare, constituting less than 1% of all cancers diagnosed annually. Despite its rarity, it can occur across all age groups and affect both men and women. The disease encompasses a diverse range of tumour types. These subtypes exhibit varying levels of aggressiveness, prognosis, and treatment modalities.

Salivary Gland Cancer Types

Salivary gland cancer encompasses various types of tumours, each classified based on the specific type of cells involved and their microscopic appearance. The main types of salivary gland cancer include:

• Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma: This is the most common type of salivary gland cancer, accounting for a significant proportion of cases. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma typically contains a mix of mucous-secreting cells, epidermoid (squamous) cells, and intermediate cells. These tumours can vary in their aggressiveness and may have different grades based on their histological features.
• Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma: Adenoid cystic carcinoma is characterised by slow, relentless growth and a tendency to invade nerves and blood vessels. Despite its slow-growing nature, it has a high propensity for local recurrence and distant metastasis, particularly to the lungs. Adenoid cystic carcinoma often presents as a painless mass and is notorious for its challenging management.
• Acinic Cell Carcinoma: Acinic cell carcinoma arises from cells that produce saliva (acinic cells) and usually presents as a slow-growing tumour. These tumours often occur in the parotid gland but can also arise in other salivary glands. While most acinic cell carcinomas are low-grade and have a favourable prognosis, some cases may exhibit more aggressive behaviour.
• Adenocarcinoma: Adenocarcinoma is a broad category of tumours that arise from glandular cells. In the context of salivary gland cancer, adenocarcinomas can manifest in various subtypes, each with distinct characteristics and clinical behaviour. Examples include papillary cystadenocarcinoma and polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma.
• Salivary Duct Carcinoma: Salivary duct carcinoma is a high-grade malignancy that resembles ductal carcinoma of the breast. These tumours typically arise in the parotid gland and may exhibit rapid growth and a propensity for local invasion and distant metastasis.
• Other Rare Subtypes: In addition to the aforementioned types, there are several rare subtypes of salivary gland cancer, such as clear cell carcinoma, oncocytic carcinoma, and carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (malignant transformation of a benign pleomorphic adenoma).