Salivary gland pathology in the paediatric population: implications for management and presentation of a rare case
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Updated: May 3, 2026

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Published on: October 13, 2023
L Jablenska1, A Trinidade2, V Meranagri1
1Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Luton and Dunstable University Hospital, Luton.
Insights
This study reports the youngest case of pleomorphic adenoma in a child's parotid gland, highlighting unique management considerations for pediatric salivary gland tumors.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Head and Neck Surgery
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Salivary gland pathology is uncommon in children, posing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
- Paediatric parotid masses require careful evaluation due to their rarity and potential for varied presentations.
Observation:
- A seven-year-old girl presented with a painless left parotid mass.
- Imaging revealed a well-defined, superficial parotid lesion.
- Histopathology confirmed pleomorphic adenoma.
Findings:
- The case represents the youngest reported instance of parotid pleomorphic adenoma.
- Surgical management involved superficial parotidectomy.
- Literature review indicated distinct pediatric management strategies compared to adults.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of tailored approaches for pediatric parotid gland tumors.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Further research into pediatric salivary gland neoplasm management is warranted.
Introduction:
Salivary gland pathology in the paediatric population is rare and can present management challenges regarding both investigation and treatment.
Method:
Case report and review of available literature.
Results:
A seven-year-old, fit, well girl presented with a two-month history of a painless mass over the left parotid area. Ultrasonography confirmed the presence of a well-defined, 1.5 × 2 cm, predominantly solid lesion with minor internal cystic spaces arising from the superficial part of the gland. Magnetic resonance imaging showed no invasion of the deep lobe or skeletal erosion. Superficial parotidectomy was performed via a facelift incision. Histopathology confirmed a diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma. Review of the literature emphasised important differences in managing this pathology in the paediatric population when compared with adults.
Conclusion:
We present the youngest reported case of a pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland, detail its management, and discuss the general approach to parotid pathology management in the paediatric population.
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