Am i worrying too much about the possibility of salivary gland cancer? i have been proactive seeing ent and seeing a oral surgeon next week. i have a swollen left paratoid salivary gland. im hoping the appt eases my mind. i heard most are benign?

Infection and inflammation are more common causes of one sided parotid enlargement. Doing the work up is important and best way to achieve peace of mind.

Hello, Fortunately what you have heard is true. 80% of Parotid gland tumors are benign. If the gland under your jaw (submandibular gland) has a growth, then 50% are cancerous and if a growth is in a minor salivary gland then 80% are cancerous. Have it looked at and biopsied by your ENT or OFMS for confirmation.

You heard correctly. Instead of making yourself sick over something you have no control over, do the best thing possible. See the specialists who are so well trained to diagnose and treat you problem. Understand that the great preponderance of history is on your side. Yes, there is a small chance of your problem not being benign, but if so your team is eminently qualified to address it.