Salivary gland cancer is a rare disease. Therefore, it was not possible to study it thoroughly. And nevertheless to struggle with an illness from time to time it is necessary. And accordingly, and its main characteristics to know will not hurt.
The causes of salivary gland cancer
In the mouth - on the mucosa directly in the oral cavity and on the throat - there is an impressive number of salivary glands. Why they form malignant neoplasms, it is difficult to say. It is for the time being known only that the cancer of the salivary gland is not of hereditary origin and is in no way associated with various genetic mutations. It is very likely that the development of tumors can be preceded by irradiation or infection with the Epstein-Barr virus .
Species and symptoms of salivary gland cancer
There are three main forms of oncology:
- squamous cell;
- undifferentiated;
- cylinder cell.
Like any other kind of cancer, the cancer of the salivary gland can not give signs of its presence. When the ailment passes into a more complex stage, it appears:
- tumor;
- soreness in the area of glands;
- weakness in facial muscles (but only on one side).
Very often, in addition to the above symptoms, there is a lack of sensitivity in the mouth.
Treatment and prognosis of survival in cancer of the salivary gland
The most effective method is surgical removal of the tumor. Radiotherapy is also not bad. If it was possible to detect a tumor at an early stage, it can be cured relatively simply. Fifteen-year survival threshold in this case can be overcome by more than 50% of patients.
Since there are many nerve endings around the salivary glands, one must be prepared for complications after the operation.