Diseases of the Salivary Glands

Question 1

Anatomy of the Salivary Glands (3).

Answer 1

3 Pairs :

1. Parotid (Serous).
2. Submandibular (Mixed).
3. Sublingual (Mucous).

Question 2

Which glands are most associated with pathology? (2)

Answer 2

1. Parotid - Tumours.

2. Submandibular - stones.

Question 3

Key Features of Pleomorphic Tumours (4).

Answer 3

1. A.K.A. Mixed Parotid Tumour.
2. Middle Age.
3. Slow Growing, Painless Lump.
4. Management : Superficial Parotidectomy (Risk of CN VII Damage).

Question 4

Key Features of Warthin’s Tumour (3).

Answer 4

1. A.K.A. Adenolymphomas.
2. Middle Age Males.
3. Softer, More Mobile and Fluctuant.

Question 5

Key Features of Salivary Gland Stones (4).

Answer 5

1. Recurrent Unilateral Pain and Swelling on Eating.
2. Infection : Ludwig’s Angina.
3. Imaging : Plain X Ray, Sialogaphy.
4. Management : Surgical Removal.

Question 6

Other Causes of Salivary Gland Enlargement (3).

Answer 6

1. Acute Viral Infection e.g. Mumps.
2. Acute Bacterial Infection e.g. Secondary to Dehydration Diabetes.
3. Sicca Syndrome and Sjogren’s.