Differential Diagnosis for Submandibular Swelling
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Submandibular sialadenitis: This is the most common cause of submandibular swelling, often due to bacterial or viral infections, and can be acute or chronic. The submandibular gland is more prone to infections due to its anatomy and the nature of its secretions.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Submandibular gland stones (sialolithiasis): Stones in the submandibular gland or its duct can cause obstruction, leading to swelling and potentially infection.
- Benign tumors (e.g., pleomorphic adenoma): These are common in the salivary glands and can cause swelling in the submandibular area.
- Lymphadenopathy: Enlargement of the lymph nodes in the submandibular region can be due to various causes, including infections, autoimmune diseases, or malignancies.
- Submandibular gland cysts or mucoceles: These can form due to obstruction of the gland's ducts or trauma, leading to accumulation of mucin and swelling.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Malignant tumors (e.g., adenoid cystic carcinoma, mucoepidermoid carcinoma): Although less common than benign tumors, these can have significant implications if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
- Abscesses: A collection of pus in the submandibular space can be life-threatening if not properly managed, potentially leading to airway compromise or sepsis.
- Deep neck infections: Infections in the deep spaces of the neck can spread and cause severe complications, including airway obstruction and mediastinitis.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Sjögren's syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can affect the salivary glands, leading to swelling and dysfunction.
- Sarcoidosis: A systemic disease that can cause granulomatous inflammation in various organs, including the salivary glands.
- Kimura disease: A rare, chronic inflammatory disorder that can cause lymphadenopathy and swelling in the head and neck region, including the submandibular area.
- Branchial cleft cysts: Congenital anomalies that can present as swellings in the neck, including the submandibular region.