Salivary Gland Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Kovvuru Bhaskar Reddy , Oncologists

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Salivary gland cancer is a rare type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the salivary glands, which produce saliva to help with digestion, lubrication, and oral health. It can arise in the major salivary glands (parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands) or the numerous minor salivary glands located throughout the mouth and throat.

Most salivary gland tumors are benign, but malignant tumors can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment significantly improve outcomes.

What Are the Types of Salivary Gland Cancer?

Several types of salivary gland cancers are classified based on the type of cells involved.

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma: The most common type, usually affecting the parotid gland.
Adenoid cystic carcinoma: Slow-growing but prone to spreading along nerves.
Acinic cell carcinoma: Usually slow-growing and less aggressive.
Polymorphous adenocarcinoma: Commonly arises in the minor salivary glands.
Salivary duct carcinoma: An aggressive cancer that resembles breast ductal carcinoma.
Adenocarcinoma: A group of cancers arising from glandular tissue.
Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma: A malignant tumor developing from a previously benign salivary gland tumor.

What Are the Symptoms of Salivary Gland Cancer?

Symptoms depend on the location and size of the tumor. Some tumors grow slowly and remain painless during the early stages.

A persistent lump or swelling near the jaw, neck, cheek, or mouth
Pain around the salivary gland or ear
Facial numbness or tingling
Weakness or paralysis of facial muscles
Difficulty swallowing
Difficulty opening the mouth fully
Persistent mouth or jaw pain
Loose teeth without another obvious cause
Difficulty speaking

What Causes Salivary Gland Cancer?

The exact cause is unknown, but cancer develops when genetic changes cause salivary gland cells to grow uncontrollably.

Acquired genetic mutations in salivary gland cells
Previous radiation exposure to the head or neck
Increasing age
Occupational exposure to industrial chemicals such as silica dust or asbestos
Family history of certain cancers (rarely)

When to See a Doctor for Salivary Gland Cancer?

Salivary gland cancer is typically managed by a multidisciplinary team led by an Oncologist or ENT Specialist. Depending on the stage and type of cancer, care may also involve a Medical Oncologist, Radiation Oncologist, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, and Speech and Swallowing Therapist.

Seek medical evaluation if you notice a persistent lump near the jaw or neck, facial weakness, numbness, difficulty swallowing, unexplained pain around the salivary glands, or changes in facial movement. Early diagnosis improves treatment options, preserves function, and leads to better outcomes.

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

A painless lump that persists for more than two weeks
Facial weakness or paralysis
Persistent pain near the ear or jaw
Difficulty swallowing or opening the mouth
Rapidly enlarging swelling in the salivary gland region

Seek urgent medical attention if facial paralysis develops suddenly or if swelling interferes with breathing or swallowing.

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How Is Salivary Gland Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosis combines clinical examination, imaging studies, and biopsy to confirm the type and stage of the cancer.

Medical history and physical examination
Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy
Core needle biopsy
Incisional or excisional biopsy when necessary
Ultrasound of the salivary glands
CT scan
MRI scan
PET scan for advanced disease or suspected spread
Laboratory tests before treatment planning

How Is Salivary Gland Cancer Treated?

Treatment depends on the cancer type, stage, location, and overall health of the patient. A multidisciplinary team develops an individualized treatment plan.

Surgery

Complete removal of the affected salivary gland
Removal of nearby lymph nodes when cancer has spread or is at high risk
Facial nerve preservation whenever possible
Reconstructive surgery if required

Radiation Therapy

External beam radiation after surgery for high-risk tumors
Definitive radiation for patients who cannot undergo surgery

Systemic Therapy

Chemotherapy for advanced or metastatic disease
Targeted therapy for selected cancers with specific genetic alterations
Immunotherapy in carefully selected cases

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What Are the Risk Factors for Salivary Gland Cancer?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing salivary gland cancer.

Older age
Previous radiation therapy to the head or neck
Occupational exposure to industrial chemicals
Male sex (slightly increased risk)
Family history of certain cancers
Previous benign salivary gland tumors in some cases

What Are the Complications of Salivary Gland Cancer?

Untreated or advanced salivary gland cancer can lead to local tissue damage and spread to other organs.

Facial nerve paralysis
Difficulty swallowing
Speech impairment
Chronic pain
Spread to lymph nodes
Metastasis to distant organs such as the lungs or bones
Recurrence after treatment
Reduced quality of life

Living With Salivary Gland Cancer

Many people successfully recover after treatment, especially when the cancer is detected early. Long-term follow-up with head and neck surgeons, oncologists, radiation specialists, dentists, and rehabilitation professionals helps monitor for recurrence, manage treatment-related side effects, restore facial function when needed, and maintain the best possible quality of life.