What is Pleomorphic Adenoma?
Pleomorphic adenoma is a common type of benign tumour of the salivary gland but tends to be malignant. It is the most common salivary and parotid gland tumour.
What are Salivary Glands?
The salivary glands are 3 pairs of glands in the mouth that produce saliva. They are located in front of each ear, below the jaw and tongue, and are respectively called parotid, submandibular and sublingual. They help digest food, retain moisture in the mouth, and protect teeth and gums as they have antimicrobial properties.
What is the Parotid Gland?
Parotid glands also come under the category of the salivary gland. There is a pair of salivary glands on each side of the face and in front of the ears. These glands are called the parotid glands. The parotid glands secrete saliva, which lubricates food and helps break it down. Disease Causes There is no well-known cause, however certain hereditary and genetic (faulty alteration in the genes) mutations are considered responsible for the development of pleomorphic adenoma.
Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are
- Pleomorphic adenoma usually develop as a single, painless, slow-growing mass
- Usually, the lump or nodule is painless, hard, but not attached to the surface, and may move under the skin when trying to move
- It is usually developed in old age people with the mean age at the occurrence of the disease being 43 years.
- A pleomorphic adenoma may also develop in younger people and children.
Diagnosis
The following tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are
- A physician will do a physical examination of the jaws, face, neck, and throat to find out the lumps or masses and their nature.
- Imaging tests such as MRI, CT-scan, Or PET scan to find out the site, size, and extent of the tumour
- Fine needle aspiration biopsy and histopathological examination to rule out the type of cancer cells
Treatment
Treatment options vary according to the types of cancer cells, their size, and the extent of the tumour. Surgical resection (removal of the tumour along with some marginal healthy tissues of the affected salivary gland) of the tumour is the main treatment option, while in advanced malignant (cancerous) cases surgical removal of the affected salivary gland with radiation and chemotherapy is the main treatment option.
What Support can we Give for Pleomorphic adenoma?
Pleomorphic adenoma is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Nodal Pleomorphic adenoma, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
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Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
