[Primary sub-mandibular gland tumours: experience based on 68 cases].

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Head and Neck Surgery
• Oncology

Context:

• Sub-mandibular gland tumors present unique clinical and therapeutic challenges compared to parotid tumors.
• This study reviews a retrospective series of sub-mandibular gland tumors treated between 1986 and 2000.
• The literature on sub-mandibular gland tumors is also reviewed.

Purpose:

• To report the clinical experience with sub-mandibular gland tumors.
• To analyze the characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment of these tumors.
• To highlight the importance of timely and accurate management.

Summary:

• A review of 68 sub-mandibular gland tumors (37 benign, 31 malignant) revealed pleomorphic adenoma as the most common benign type.
• Adenoid cystic carcinoma was the most frequent malignant sub-mandibular gland tumor, followed by epidermoid carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, mucoepidermoid carcinoma, and lymphoma.
• Malignancy signs included pain, cervical adenopathy, nerve palsy, and invasion; treatment involved surgical excision, with neck dissection, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy for malignant cases.

Impact:

• Sub-mandibular gland tumors exhibit a higher malignancy rate than parotid tumors.
• Delayed diagnosis or inadequate treatment of sub-mandibular gland tumors can lead to poor patient prognosis.
• This study underscores the need for vigilant diagnosis and tailored therapeutic strategies for sub-mandibular gland malignancies.