Diseases of the salivary glands

Salivary gland disease is managed by a number of specialities. There are three pairs of major salivary glands and several hundred minor salivary glands within the upper aerodigestive tract. Pathology is diverse, including infective, inflammatory and neoplastic diseases. Clinical presentation is usually with a lump within, or swelling of the gland. Investigations combine clinical assessment, fine needle aspiration cytology and radiology. Management is medical or surgical dependent on pathology. Surgical intervention is commonly performed for chronic inflammatory disorders and neoplasms. Management requires a sound knowledge of anatomy and oncologic principles.