Salivary gland tumors in children

Tumors of salivary gland origin are relatively uncommon in children. Over a 23-yr period, there were 12 such tumors affecting children under 16 yr of age out of a total 937 cases reported by a central cancer registry. The commonest lesion was the pleomorphic adenoma involving the parotid gland. Wide focal excision seemed to be an adequate procedure as long as the tumor was completely removed. Inadequate excision resulted in multiple local recurrences with the tumor taking on more malignant characteristics. Early radical excision, with preservation of the facial nerve, is advocated.