Frequently asked questions about Parotid Tumours

A parotid tumour is an abnormal growth of cells in the parotid gland, which is one of the main salivary glands. 

Symptoms may include a lump or nodule on the gland; pain; changes in salivary function; facial numbness, partial or complete facial paralysis and changes in the skin over the gland. 

They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Pleomorphic adenomas are the most common benign tumours; while mucoepidermoid carcinomas are examples of malignant tumours. 

The causes are often unclear, but risk factors can include age, sex, radiation exposure and smoking, among others. 

The diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as MRI, CT or ultrasound, cytological punctures and blood tests. 

Treatment is surgical, for both benign and malignant tumours. Malignant tumours can also be treated by radiotherapy, chemotherapy or targeted therapy, among others. 

They are generally painless, although they can be painful depending on the tumour type, size and location. 

Parotid tumours can affect saliva production, which can lead to a dry mouth or increased saliva production. 

Parotid surgery can have risks, such as damaging the facial nerve and causing changes in facial mobility. However, these risks depend on the type of surgery. 

The prognosis varies with the type of tumour, its staging and other factors. Benign tumours generally have a more favourable prognosis than malignant ones. 

Malignant tumours can metastasise to other parts of the body; however, benign tumours cannot. 

Recovery varies on the type of surgery and its extent. It may require aftercare and physical therapy (rehabilitation) to improve facial function. 

Pharmacological therapies such as chemotherapy and targeted therapies can be used in certain cases; however, generally the treatment is surgical or in combination with other treatments. 

Research is currently being conducted in areas such as immunotherapy, gene therapy and precision medicine, with the hope of improving treatment approaches. 

There is no guaranteed way to prevent them, but avoiding exposure to risk factors such as smoking and radiation is sensible.