Warthin's tumour of the parotid gland

The authors, after examining two recent cases, explain a number of basic concepts regarding the diagnosis and therapy of Warthin's tumour of the parotid gland. Despite their low frequency, such tumours are very important because of their aetiopathogenesis, which is still controversial, and the recent increase in their incidence in females. Today, the diagnostic protocol, undertaken after the necessary clinical examination, relies mainly on ultrasonography and CT, but only a postoperative histological examination is capable of yielding a sure diagnosis and establishing the main histomorphological characteristics of the tumour. The therapeutic approach can be limited to conservative treatment, sparing the parotid gland and its vascularization and innervation.