Histopathological study of salivary gland lesions in a tertiary care center

Introduction: Salivary gland neoplasms constitute about 3% of all head and neck neoplasms and are relatively uncommon. Majority of the tumours are seen in the parotid gland followed by submandibular and other minor salivary glands. Histopathology is the gold standard in diagnosis of salivary gland lesions. The aim of this study was to study the frequency, site and the histopathological spectrum of salivary gland lesions in our institute. Materials & methods: This was a retrospective study done in the Department of Pathology, Kanachur Institute of Medical Sciences. Resected salivary gland specimens sent in 10% neutral buffered formalin were processed, embedded, sections cut and stained with hematoxylin and eosin stain. Gross and microscopic findings were noted. Results: A total of 22 lesions were received during this period. Out of these 22 lesions, 16 were benign and 6 were malignant. Majority of the lesions were located in the parotid gland followed by submandibular gland. Pleomorphic adenoma was the most common benign tumour followed by Warthin’s tumour. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma was the most common malignant tumour. One case was diagnosed as Lymphoproliferative disorder which on further evaluation was proven to be Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. Conclusion: This study showed that parotid gland was the most common site for salivary gland lesions. Benign lesions outnumbered the malignant lesions with Pleomorphic adenoma being the most common benign lesion. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma was the most common malignant lesion.