Summary about Disease
Salivary gland cancer is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the salivary glands. These glands produce saliva, which helps with digestion, keeps the mouth moist, and supports healthy teeth. Most salivary gland tumors are benign (noncancerous), but some can be malignant (cancerous). There are various types of salivary gland cancers, categorized by the specific cells involved. Treatment depends on the type, location, stage, and grade of the cancer.
Symptoms
Symptoms of salivary gland cancer can include:
A lump or swelling in the mouth, cheek, jaw, or neck
Pain in the mouth, cheek, jaw, or neck
Numbness in part of the face
Muscle weakness on one side of the face
Difficulty swallowing
Trouble opening the mouth widely
A difference in the size or shape of the right and left sides of your face or neck.
Causes
The exact cause of salivary gland cancer is often unknown. However, genetic mutations in salivary gland cells can cause them to grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. Risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing salivary gland cancer include:
Older age
Radiation exposure (particularly to the head and neck)
Certain occupational exposures (e.g., asbestos, rubber manufacturing)
A family history of cancer (though this is less common)
Certain genetic syndromes.
Medicine Used
There are no specific medicines to completely cure salivary gland cancer. Medicine depends on the type, location, stage, and grade of the cancer. Treatment includes the following:
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs are used to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams, such as X-rays and protons, to kill cancer cells.
Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy medications block specific abnormalities present within cancer cells. By blocking these abnormalities, targeted drugs can cause cancer cells to die.
Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy drugs help your immune system fight cancer.
Is Communicable
No, salivary gland cancer is not a communicable disease. It cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Since the exact cause is often unknown, specific preventative precautions are limited. However, some steps may help reduce risk:
Avoid tobacco use (smoking and chewing).
Limit exposure to radiation, especially to the head and neck.
If working in industries with known occupational exposures (e.g., asbestos), adhere to safety protocols and wear appropriate protective equipment.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Discuss any family history of cancer with your doctor.
How long does an outbreak last?
Salivary gland cancer is not an infectious disease and does not have "outbreaks." The term "outbreak" is not applicable. The progression of the cancer depends on its type, grade, stage, and the individual's response to treatment.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis of salivary gland cancer typically involves:
Physical Exam: A doctor will examine the mouth, jaw, neck, and face for lumps or abnormalities.
Imaging Tests: MRI, CT scans, PET scans, and X-rays can help visualize the tumor's size, location, and spread.
Biopsy: A tissue sample (biopsy) is taken from the tumor and examined under a microscope to determine if it's cancerous and, if so, the type of cancer. Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) or surgical biopsy may be used.
Endoscopy: To visualise if it has invaded the pharynx.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary significantly depending on the growth rate and location of the tumor.
Early Stages: In some cases, the cancer may be asymptomatic in the early stages. Or, a small, painless lump may be present.
Later Stages: As the tumor grows, symptoms like pain, facial weakness, difficulty swallowing, and numbness may develop gradually over weeks or months.
Progression: If left untreated, the cancer can spread to nearby tissues, lymph nodes, and distant organs, leading to more severe symptoms.
Important Considerations
Rarity: Salivary gland cancer is relatively rare, so accurate diagnosis and treatment planning require specialized expertise.
Varied Types: There are many different types of salivary gland cancer, each with its own characteristics and prognosis.
Treatment Planning: Treatment is highly individualized and depends on the specific type, stage, and grade of the cancer. A multidisciplinary team of specialists (surgeons, oncologists, radiation oncologists) is crucial.
Long-Term Follow-Up: Even after successful treatment, long-term follow-up is necessary to monitor for recurrence.
Quality of Life: Treatment can impact quality of life, particularly regarding speech, swallowing, and facial appearance. Supportive care and rehabilitation are important.