Salivary Gland Tumours: 10 Years’ Experience in a Quaternary Care Centre in Southern India

Background and Objectives: Tumours of the salivary gland are rare, accounting for 2%–6% of all head and neck cancers. To provide data for comparison with epidemiological studies from different geographic regions and ethnic groups, this research intends to assess the incidence and distribution of salivary gland cancers within an Indian cohort. Methodology: We retrospectively collected data on the distribution and histopathological characteristics of salivary gland neoplasms diagnosed in the Department of Histopathology, Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, between June 2014 and June 2024. Pathological findings and demographic data for all cases were retrieved from the laboratory information system. Results: Out of 631 patients, 75% ( n = 473) were identified as benign, while 25% ( n = 158) were classified as malignant. The average age of patients was 44.9 ± 15.3 years. There was a slight male predominance, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 5.3:4.7. Parotid gland was the most frequently affected site, comprising 68.6% of the tumours, followed by minor salivary glands (18.5%), submandibular gland (11.9%) and sublingual gland (1%). One patient presented with a bilateral tumour and 2.7% were recurrent tumours. Conclusion: This study represents one of the largest investigations of primary salivary gland tumours in India, providing comprehensive insights into salivary gland tumours neoplasms in our region. Additionally, gathering epidemiological data on these tumours from various regions worldwide can deepen our understanding of their biology and clinical features.