Salivary Glands Overview

Salivary Glands: Overview

• Salivary glands are exocrine glands that produce and secrete saliva into the oral cavity.
• This saliva plays a critical role in digestion, oral hygiene, and overall health.
• Three major pairs of salivary glands are present: parotid, submandibular, and sublingual.
• Numerous smaller glands are also scattered throughout the oral mucosa.

Salivary Gland Types and Locations

• Parotid Glands: Located inferior and anterior to the ears, they are the largest salivary glands.
• Secrete a serous fluid rich in amylase, an enzyme that initiates carbohydrate digestion.
• Submandibular Glands: Found on either side of the jaw, inferior to the mandible and anterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscles.
• Secrete a mixed fluid, containing both serous and mucous components.
• Sublingual Glands: Located beneath the tongue, in the floor of the mouth.
• Secrete primarily mucous saliva, which lubricates the mouth and aids in swallowing.

Saliva Composition and Function

• Saliva Composition: Primarily water (99.5%), with electrolytes (Na+, K+, Cl-), mucus, enzymes (amylase, lipase), and antibacterial substances (lysozyme, immunoglobulins).
• Digestive Function: Saliva moistens food, facilitating mastication and swallowing. Amylase initiates the breakdown of starches.
• Oral Hygiene: Saliva washes away food particles, preventing tooth decay. Lysozyme and antibodies provide a natural defense against oral bacteria.
• Taste Perception: Saliva dissolves food particles, allowing taste receptors to detect flavors.
• Buffering: Saliva neutralizes acids, maintaining the pH balance in the mouth.

Salivary Gland Diseases

• Salivary Gland Disease: Include infections (mumps), inflammation (sialadenitis), stones (sialolithiasis), and tumors (benign and malignant).

• Mumps (Parotitis): A viral infection that primarily affects the parotid glands, causing swelling and pain.

• Sialadenitis: Inflammation of the salivary glands, often caused by bacterial infections or obstruction.

• Sialolithiasis: The formation of stones (calculi) within the salivary ducts, causing blockage and pain.

• Tumours: Benign or malignant tumors can develop within the salivary glands. Diagnosis often requires fine-needle aspiration or biopsy followed by pathology analysis.

• Risk Factors: Genetics, radiation exposure, and certain medications have been linked to an increased risk of salivary gland tumors.

Salivary Gland Diagnostic Techniques

• Physical Examination: Palpation of the glands is often a first step in diagnosing issues.
• Imaging Studies: Ultrasound and CT/MRI scans aid in visualizing the glands and detecting abnormalities.
• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA): A procedure where a small sample of tissue is extracted for microscopic analysis.
• Biopsy: Removal of a tissue sample for more detailed analysis. Pathology reports from biopsy are used to classify types of lesions found.

Salivary Gland Treatment Options

• Treatment for infections: Often includes symptomatic management, hydration, and antibiotics.
• Treatment for stones: Medical or surgical removal of stones. If causing recurring issues, the complete gland may require surgical removal.
• Treatment for tumors: Treatment varies depending on the type of tumor. It can range from surgery (removing the tumor and some of the surrounding tissue), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of treatments.
• Treatment for inflammation: Manage underlying causes, provide pain relief, and ensure adequate hydration.