Causes and risk factors
The cells undergo an abnormal and uncontrolled proliferation. Eventually, these clusters of cells lead to formation of a tumor or mass. What causes this abnormal growth is still a mystery. Studies have put forth certain risk factors for developing this type of cancer. A major contributing factor is exposure to radiation. People working in occupations where there is exposure to radiations or chemicals like nickel, alloys, silica, or working in mines, plumbing or rubber factories have a high chance of affection. Salivary gland tumors have also been developed as a side effect of radiation and chemotherapy, especially for the tumors of the head and neck region. Like many other cancers, excessive use of alcohol, smoking, and tobacco has also been linked in its causation.
Clinical presentation:
Indolent growths of the abnormal cells in its initial stage do not pose any noticeable sign and symptom in the body, hence the patient remains asymptomatic for long. Over a period of time, the patient comes up with other health issues. Most of the occasions, the patient usually comes up with vague symptoms like body ache, fatigue, and tenderness all over the body. A noticeable change in weight is complained by the patient or is brought into notice by the known ones. In the early stages of formation of a tumor, no signs and symptoms are evident. As the tumor increases in size, a notable swelling can be seen in the neck region, in the mouth or near the ear. The complaints can be unilateral or bilateral. The patient complains of pain on opening of mouth or while chewing or swallowing food. As the tumor increases in size, it leads to facial deformity. Gradually numbness and loss of sensation occurs. Weakness of muscles is seen. Paralysis of face supervenes. One may also present with fluid draining or discharges from ear. Eventually the various normal activities or movements of the face, mouth, or ear can be affected. Metastasis can lead to various other symptoms pertaining to that system or organ.
Investigations:
Taking into consideration the complaints mentioned by the patient, a physical examination of the patient is carried out. An otolaryngologist is consulted. Accordingly certain sets of investigations are advised. Facial x-ray along with CT scan or MRI of the head and neck is done. If any abnormal growth or mass is detected, a biopsy is done which will help to differentiate between the benign and neoplastic cells. If the cancerous growth is confirmed, certain other sets of investigations like routine blood test, blood sugar levels, etc., are also advised. A complete scan (PET scan) is the most essential investigation tool mandatorily advised in all cancerous conditions.
Treatment:
Staging of cancer, (i.e., advancement and spread of pathology) is the essential tool for formatting the treatment plan. If any abnormal mass is detected, surgical excision of the tumor along with removal of the cancerous part and some of the surrounding tissue is done. The approach of surgery varies as per the salivary gland affected. Radiation treatment along with administration of chemotherapeutic agents is done in advanced cases. Along with that certain palliative procedures are carried out.
Complications:
Like any other cancer, late stage cancer endangers life as it is an incurable disease.
Prevention: As the exact cause is not known, it is not possible to elicit the preventive measures too.
System involved: Integumentary system, nervous system, musculoskeletal system.
