More about Salivary Gland

Salivary gland cancer is a rare cancer that occurs in the salivary glands. These glands are responsible for producing saliva or spit. Your salivary glands are located in several places around the face, neck, jaw, and mouth. Cancerous tumors can develop in any of these spots. Noncancerous (benign) tumors are also possible in these same areas. Salivary gland cancer occurs when irregular cells form in the tissues of the salivary glands or the ducts connected to the glands.

Causes and Risk Factors

It’s unclear why salivary gland cancers develop. However, researchers discovered some risk factors that increase a person’s risk for developing this rare cancer. These include: Age: Older adults are more likely to develop salivary gland cancer. The average age of diagnosis is 64. Gender: Salivary gland cancers are more common in men. Radiation exposure: If you’ve received medical radiation treatment to the head or neck, your risk for salivary gland cancer is higher. Likewise, people with workplace exposure to radiation or radioactive substances have a higher risk. Certain occupations: A 2018 studyTrusted Source found that certain occupations were associated with an increased risk for salivary gland cancer. These include: waiters, housecleaners, electrical equipment assemblers, plumbers, welders, sheet-metal workers, building painters, and material handling equipment operators. Poor nutrition: A 2009 studyTrusted Source found that poor nutrition may also be a risk factor for malignant salivary gland tumors. If you have a family history of salivary gland cancer, your risk for it may be higher. However, most people who develop salivary gland cancer don’t have a family history of this cancer. It’s worth noting that some benign salivary gland tumors may become malignant over time. While the risk is low, it’s important to be aware of.

Symptoms

Tumors in these microscopic salivary glands are uncommon. However, when they do occur, they’re more likely to be cancerous. The palate, or roof of the mouth, is the most common location for tumors. Symptoms of a salivary gland tumor could appear wherever you have a salivary gland. However, most of the symptoms are similar no matter which type of salivary gland is impacted. The most common symptoms of salivary gland cancer include: A lump or swollen area in your mouth, jaw, cheek, or neck, Ulcerated mass inside the mouth, Constant pain in your mouth, jaw, check, neck, or ear, A noticeable size difference on the sides of your face or neck, Difficulty opening your mouth widely, Numbness in your mouth or jaw, Muscle weakness on one side of your face, Difficulty swallowing (late-stage symptom)