Salivary gland cancer

Salivary Gland Cancer: Everything You Need to Know at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City in Abu Dhabi

What are the Salivary Glands?

The salivary glands are six small organs that produce saliva, with three located on each side of the face. Saliva plays an important role in digestion by moistening food and aiding swallowing, and it contains enzymes that help digest certain carbohydrates.

What is Salivary Gland Cancer?

Salivary gland cancer is a type of cancer that arises from the cells of the salivary glands. It is a rare form of cancer, accounting for approximately 6% of all head and neck tumours.

What are the Symptoms?

Symptoms of salivary gland cancer may include:

• A lump or swelling in the face, mouth or neck
• Pain in the face, mouth or neck
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Dry mouth
• Facial muscle paralysis
• Numbness in the face or mouth
• Bleeding from the mouth

What are the Causes?

The exact cause of salivary gland cancer is not fully understood. However, some factors that may increase the risk include:

• Advancing age
• Exposure to radiation
• Certain genetic syndromes
• Infection with Epstein-Barr virus

What are the Types of Salivary Gland Cancer?

There are several types of salivary gland cancer, classified according to the cell of origin. The most common types include:

• Benign salivary gland tumour
• Adenocarcinoma of the salivary gland
• Lymphoepithelial salivary gland carcinoma

Diagnosis

Salivary gland cancer is usually diagnosed through a physical examination and imaging investigations, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT). A biopsy of the salivary gland may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for salivary gland cancer depends on the type and stage of the disease. Treatment options include:

• Surgery: The most common treatment, involving removal of the tumour and the affected salivary gland.
• Radiotherapy: Used to destroy residual cancer cells after surgery or to treat cancer that has spread to lymph nodes.
• Chemotherapy: Systemic anti‑cancer drugs may be used to treat cancer that has spread.

Expectations for Recovery

Prognosis depends on the cancer type and stage at diagnosis. Generally, outcomes are favourable for patients diagnosed in the early stages of the disease.

After treatment, it is important to attend regular follow‑up appointments to monitor for any signs of recurrence.

Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City in Abu Dhabi: Distinguished care for patients with salivary gland cancer

Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) in Abu Dhabi is one of the region's premier medical centres, offering outstanding care for patients with salivary gland cancer. The hospital's clinical team includes experts with advanced skills in diagnosing and treating this form of cancer, using the latest techniques and therapeutic approaches. The centre also provides a supportive environment and comprehensive psychosocial care for patients.

For more information, please contact Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City on 800 7762 or schedule an appointment here.