The Head & Neck Oncology Program offers diagnosis and treatment for those with salivary gland cancer. To make an appointment, please call 734-936-8051.

Healthcare professionals, please contact our M-LINE service: 800-962-3555.

Salivary glands make saliva which contains enzymes that help digest food as well as antibodies that help protect the mouth and throat from infection.  There are 3 pairs of major salivary glands:

• Parotid glands:  These are the largest and are located in front of and just below each ear.  Most tumors begin in one of these glands.
• Sublingual glands:  These are located under the tongue.
• Submandibular glands:  These are located below the jawbone.

Salivary gland cancer often appears without any symptoms and is often found during dental check-ups or a physical exam.  The signs and symptoms of salivary gland are similar to other conditions.  Check with your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:

• A lump (usually painless) in the area of the ear, cheek, jaw, lip or inside of the mouth
• Fluid draining from the ear
• Trouble swallowing or opening the mouth wide
• Numbness or weakness in the face
• Pain in the face that does not go away

Your dentist or doctor may look closely inside your mouth, and feel along your throat and under your ears for signs of salivary gland cancer. Other tests may be needed if there are signs of possible cancer. These tests may include a biopsy, an X-ray, or an MRI.

The head and neck oncology program typically treats salivary gland cancer with surgery followed by radiation for more advanced cancers. We may remove a part of or all the affected salivary gland during surgery. 

Salivary gland cancers are often located near the facial nerve. We monitor this delicate nerve during surgery and preserve nerve function whenever possible. Our surgeons also perform reconstructive surgery when it’s needed.