Dr Ronald Chin checks out Benign Salivary Gland Tumors
Benign salivary gland tumors typically present as painless, slow-growing nodules. Though non-cancerous, these tumors require careful evaluation to rule out malignancy. Diagnosis usually involves a thorough clinical examination, imaging techniques like ultrasound or CT scans, and a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy. Early detection and proper treatment are essential to prevent complications.
- Pleomorphic Adenoma
Epidemiology
- The most common benign salivary gland tumor.
- Most often found in the parotid gland.
- Occurs more frequently in women.
Clinical Presentation
- A painless, firm mass that grows slowly over several years.
- Usually unilateral (affecting one side).
Investigation
- Ultrasound imaging.
- FNA biopsy for tissue sampling.
- CT scan or MRI to assess the tumor’s size and extent.
Treatment
- Surgical removal with careful facial nerve preservation to minimize complications.
Complications
- Risk of malignant transformation if left untreated.
- Warthin’s Tumor (Papillary Cystadenoma Lymphomatosum)
Epidemiology
- Second most common salivary gland tumor.
- Primarily affects the parotid gland.
- Almost exclusively occurs in males.
Clinical Presentation
- A painless, soft mass that also grows slowly over time.
Investigation and Treatment
- Surgery is typically performed when the tumor becomes symptomatic.
Complications
- Rare cases of malignant transformation.
Key Takeaway
No salivary gland mass should be left undiagnosed. Incisional biopsies are generally avoided due to the risk of tumor spread and facial nerve damage. Early detection and surgical management, especially for tumors like pleomorphic adenomas and Warthin’s tumors, offer the best outcomes and reduce the likelihood of malignant transformation. Always consult an ENT specialist if you notice any unusual swelling or mass in the salivary gland region.
- About the Author
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Dr Ronald Chin is an Australian trained Otolaryngologist Head and Neck Surgeon.
After graduating as a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, Dr Chin undertook further specialised training in Head and Neck Cancer at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
He has published many research papers and is an active teacher and scholar.
As part of his subspecialty training, Dr Chin has training in Laser, Da Vinci Robotic, Flex Robotic and complex surgical techniques.
In addition to specialised Head and Neck Cancer, Dr Chin also enjoys general adult and paediatric ENT Surgery and practices sinus, snoring/sleep and general paediatric ENT Surgical procedures.
Dr Ronald Chin works as a general Otolaryngologist, offering a wide range of surgical and non-surgical treatments including ear surgery, nose surgery and throat surgery. He provides treatment for chronic conditions such as tonsillitis, sinus problems and problems with hearing.
He is also involved in the diagnosis and treatment of many conditions such as facial paralysis, head and neck cancer and sleep apnea. As well as performing surgery on children, he also provides specialist care for adults, including the treatment of throat disorders, voice loss and ear problems.
Dr Chin has also served as a Conjoint Associate Professor at the University of Sydney, a Conjoint Associate Professor at Western Sydney University and an Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Technology Sydney.
