Parotid cancer

Parotid cancers are relatively rare but will be encountered in any head and neck oncology practice. Their histopathological diversity merits a specific classification, particularly as prognosis is often closely associated with histological type. Tumour stage is also of prognostic significance. Diagnostic value of aspiration cytology and frozen section analysis remains unresolved for this group of tumours. Surgery remains the mainstay of treatment with primary rather than delayed reconstruction of the facial nerve should this be required.