What is parotid gland cancer?

Cancer of parotid.: This is a cancer of your parotid gland, the gland that secretes saliva to help break down foods. This can involve the facial nerve, and surgical treatment may result in partial loss of facial nerve function.

Parotid cancer: Parotid gland is the biggest salivary gland that is located just next to the ear-see picture. It is a rare type of cancer. Presented usually with a painless mass or swelling of the parotid. If localized, surgical resection is the treatment and radiation therapy is reserved for medically inoperable or unresectable case. Systemic therapy is used as palliative therapy in metastatic disease.

Parotid gland: There are many different types of parotid gland cancer, some of which are more aggressive than others. The type of cancer often dictates prognosis and the chance of a recurrence either locally or elsewhere in the body.

Parotid Cancer: Most parotid tumors are benign but about 25-30% are cancerous. Treatment almost always includes surgery with or without a neck dissection. Some patients may require radiation therapy as well. The type of cancer will determine the appropriate treatment. See and otolaryngologist with experience treating parotid tumors.