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Salivary Gland Cancer
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Mouth Teeth

Salivary Gland Cancer

Salivary gland cancer is a rare form of head and neck cancer that affects the glands responsible for producing saliva.

Your salivary glands produce saliva—often called spit—and empty it into your mouth through ducts. Saliva moistens food to assist with chewing and swallowing, aids in digestion, cleans the mouth, and contains antibodies that kill germs.

Overview

Salivary gland cancer is a rare type of head and neck cancer. It may not cause any symptoms, but when they do occur, you might notice:

  • A lump in your ear, cheek, jaw, lip, or inside the mouth
  • Fluid draining from your ear
  • Trouble swallowing or opening the mouth widely
  • Numbness, weakness, or pain in your face

Diagnosis and Treatment

Doctors diagnose salivary gland cancer using a physical exam, imaging tests, and a biopsy. Treatment options can include surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

While any new lump should be checked, specific red flags include a lump that is rapidly growing, feels hard or fixed in place, or is accompanied by persistent pain, facial weakness, or numbness. Difficulty moving your jaw, swallowing, or a noticeable change in facial symmetry also warrant urgent evaluation.
While the exact causes are often unknown, certain factors can increase risk, including older age, previous radiation exposure to the head and neck, and some genetic syndromes. Occupational exposure to substances like wood dust or silica has also been linked to an increased risk in some studies.
Recovery varies based on the treatment type and extent. After surgery, you might experience temporary facial weakness, numbness, or changes in saliva production. Radiation therapy can cause dry mouth, taste changes, and skin irritation. Long-term, some patients may need speech or swallowing therapy, and regular follow-up is crucial to monitor for recurrence or new issues.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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