From the Research
Pleomorphic adenomas typically present as a painless, slow-growing lump or swelling, most commonly in the parotid gland, and are generally firm, mobile, and non-tender when touched, as reported in the most recent study 1. The symptoms of pleomorphic adenoma, a benign salivary gland tumor, can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor.
- Common symptoms include:
- A painless, slow-growing lump or swelling in the parotid gland, which is the largest salivary gland located in front of the ear 2, 1
- Facial asymmetry as the mass enlarges
- Difficulty chewing, speaking, or swallowing if the tumor compresses surrounding structures
- Rarely, facial nerve weakness or numbness if the tumor presses on nearby nerves
- Uncommon symptoms include:
- Pain, which may suggest infection or malignant transformation 3, 4
- Systemic manifestations like fever or weight loss, which are typically absent in pleomorphic adenomas 2, 1 The diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma can be made using fine-needle aspiration, ultrasonography, and computed tomography scan, and the treatment typically involves surgical removal of the tumor to prevent recurrence and malignant transformation 5, 1. The most important consideration in the management of pleomorphic adenoma is early detection and surgical removal to minimize the risk of malignant transformation and recurrence, as emphasized in the most recent and highest quality study 1.