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[A submandibular swelling: the salivary gland?]
E M Strabbing1, J G A M de Visscher, I van der Waal
1Medisch Centrum Leeuwarden, afd. Mondziekten, Kaak- en Aangezichtschirurgie, Henri Dunantweg 2, 8934 AD Leeuwarden.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|January 8, 2005
Summary
Submandibular swelling can stem from various salivary gland diseases, including chronic sialoadenitis, sialoadenosis, pleomorphic adenoma, and malignancy. Accurate diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical examination and diagnostic tools.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Submandibular swelling presents a diagnostic challenge, often requiring differentiation from enlarged lymph nodes.
- Salivary gland diseases are a primary cause of submandibular swelling.
Observation:
- Four patients (3 males, 1 female) aged 32-74 presented with submandibular swelling.
- Causes included chronic sialoadenitis (sialolithiasis), sialoadenosis (anorexia-bulimia), pleomorphic adenoma, and malignant neoplasm causing gland obstruction.
Findings:
- Sialolithiasis: Chronic inflammation of the submandibular gland.
- Sialoadenosis: Associated with eating disorders like anorexia-bulimia.
- Pleomorphic adenoma: A benign salivary gland tumor.
- Malignant neoplasm: Floor of the mouth malignancy obstructing the submandibular gland.
Implications:
- Submandibular swelling necessitates a thorough differential diagnosis.
- Intra-oral examination and palpation are crucial for initial assessment.
- A multimodal approach including history, physical exam, fine-needle aspiration, and imaging ensures accurate diagnosis.