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Distribution of minor salivary glands in the peritonsillar space
S Kraitrakul1, S Sirithunyaporn, K Yimtae
1Department of Otolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Thailand.
Abstract:
Minor salivary glands can usually be found along the mucous membrane of the upper aerodigestive tract. Their presence in the peritonsillar space was of little interest until it was postulated that infection of Weber's gland (minor salivary gland at the superior pole of the peritonsillar space) might be the possible cause of peritonsillar abscess. This study was designed to examine the distribution of minor salivary glands in the peritonsillar space and their role in pathogenesis of peritonsillar abscess. Tonsillectomy specimens from fifty-five patients who were suffering from repeated tonsillitis, obstructive sleep apnea, tonsillar mass and peritonsillar abscess at Srinagarind Hospital from September 1995 to November 1996 were histologically examined. The locations of these minor salivary glands were found at the upper, middle, and lower portions of the peritonsillar space. This small sample study precludes any definitive statement regarding the association of Weber's gland and the pathogenesis of peritonsillar abscess.
Insights
Minor salivary glands are present throughout the peritonsillar space, not just at the superior pole (Weber's gland). Further research is needed to confirm their role in peritonsillar abscess development.
Area of Science:
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Minor salivary glands are typically found in the upper aerodigestive tract.
- Weber's gland, a minor salivary gland in the peritonsillar space, has been implicated in peritonsillar abscess formation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution of minor salivary glands within the peritonsillar space.
- To explore the potential role of these glands in the pathogenesis of peritonsillar abscess.
Main Methods:
- Histological examination of tonsillectomy specimens from 55 patients.
- Specimens were collected from patients with various tonsil-related conditions between September 1995 and November 1996.
Main Results:
- Minor salivary glands were identified in the upper, middle, and lower regions of the peritonsillar space.
- The study did not exclusively find glands at the superior pole (Weber's gland).
Conclusions:
- Minor salivary glands are distributed more broadly in the peritonsillar space than previously thought.
- The specific association of Weber's gland with peritonsillar abscess pathogenesis requires further investigation due to the limited sample size.