Salivary Gland Diseases
Important and common diseases affecting the salivary glands: Please click the following links for detailed information.
- Sialolithiasis: The presence of stones in the salivary glands or ducts, often causing pain and swelling, and sometimes leading to infection.
- Sialadenitis: Inflammation or infection of the salivary glands, which can be acute or chronic. It’s often caused by bacterial infections or blockage from salivary stones.
- Mucocele and Ranula: These are cysts formed by the pooling of saliva due to ductal obstruction or trauma. Mucoceles commonly occur in the lip, while ranulas are found under the tongue.
- Viral Infections: Such as mumps, which primarily affect the parotid glands, leading to swelling and pain.
- Sjögren’s Syndrome: An autoimmune disease characterized by dry mouth due to the destruction of salivary glands, along with other systemic symptoms.
- Salivary Gland Tumors: Both benign and malignant tumors can develop in the salivary glands. The most common benign tumor is a pleomorphic adenoma, while malignant tumors include mucoepidermoid carcinoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma.
- Salivary Gland Fistula: An abnormal opening in a salivary gland or duct, often due to injury or surgery, which can lead to saliva drainage through the skin or into the mouth.
- Xerostomia (Dry Mouth): A condition where the salivary glands don’t make enough saliva to keep the mouth moist, which can be due to various causes including medications, systemic diseases, or radiation therapy.
- Salivary Gland Enlargement: Can occur due to various reasons, including infection, tumors, or systemic diseases.
- Benign Lymphoepithelial Lesions: Often associated with HIV infection, these lesions cause swelling of the parotid glands.
These salivary gland diseases can range from minor annoyances to serious conditions requiring medical intervention. Treatment approaches vary from conservative management to surgical procedures, depending on the specific disease and its severity. Early diagnosis and treatment are key for effective management and to prevent complications.