Salivary gland tumour of the lip: report of two cases and literature review

Abstract

Salivary gland tumours (SGT'S) are uncommon; they represent 2.4% of head and neck neoplasm and include tumours affecting both major and minor salivary glands. The glands are divided into major and minor salivary gland categories. The major salivary glands are the parotid, submandibular and sublingual glands. The minor glands are dispersed throughout the upper aerodigestive submucosa (palate, tongue, lip, pharynx, nasopharynx, larynx, parapharyngeal space) and anatomical parts; skin, muscle and mucous membrane with numerous salivary glands in the submucosa. Pleomorphic adenomas (benign mixed tumours) are the most common benign SGT and comprise 85% of all salivary gland neoplasms. However, the incidence of SGT'S is claimed to be influenced by geographic and racial factors. African reports suggest a pattern that significantly differs from that of western countries. The ubiquitous deposits of the minor salivary glands complicate the diagnosis and management.