Salivary gland tumors can be seen in childhood as well as in adults. Its symptoms are usually in the form of a painless swelling or mass that has been present on the face, in front of the ear and sometimes under the chin for a long time.
The most common type of salivary gland tumor in childhood is Pleomorphic Adenoma (Mixed Tumor) and is usually parotid. It is seen in the salivary gland.
More rarely, low-grade cancers, that is, malignant tumors that are less aggressive and have a lower rate of spread (Acinic Cell Cancer, Low-Grade Mucoepidermoid Cancer), can also be seen in childhood and young adults. These tumors generally follow a course similar to benign tumors in behavior.
In addition, vascular tumors, which are relatively common in the head and neck region in childhood, can also appear as salivary gland masses. Hemangioma, lymphangioma (cystic hygroma) can be given as examples of these tumors.
Diagnosis
When a mass is encountered in the salivary gland in children and young adults, radiological examinations (ultrasound, MRI) are required after the examination. Sometimes, depending on the physician's preference, a fine needle biopsy may be necessary before planning the treatment.
Treatment
Pleomorphic Adenoma in a pediatric patient
Its treatment is surgical removal while preserving the facial nerve, as in adults. The surgery is performed through an incision extending from the front of the ear to the neck, created in accordance with aesthetic principles. When the tumor is removed with the healthy salivary gland tissue around it, it is usually removed from the child's body, never to come back.
After Treatment
After a surgery performed by preserving the facial nerve, the child or The young adult will continue their lives without any disability or damage. The incision often heals with a barely noticeable scar, and the lack of healthy salivary gland tissue removed along with the tumor is not felt in any way.
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