
Preoperative evaluation and treatment consideration of parotid gland tumors
Author(s) -
Aro Katri,
Korpi Jarkko,
Tarkkanen Jussi,
Mäkitie Antti,
Atula Timo
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
laryngoscope investigative otolaryngology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2378-8038
DOI - 10.1002/lio2.433
Subject(s) - medicine , histopathology , salivary gland , malignancy , parotid gland , radiology , pleomorphic adenoma , fine needle aspiration cytology , adenolymphoma , salivary gland diseases , pathology , biopsy
Background The nature of parotid tumors often remains unknown preoperatively and final histopathology may reveal unexpected malignancy. Still, the use of fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and imaging varies in the management of these tumors. Methods We evaluated the preoperative examinations and management of all 195 parotid gland tumors diagnosed within our catchment area of 1.6 million people during 2015. Results Altogether 171 (88%) tumors were classified as true salivary gland neoplasms. FNAC showed no false malignant findings, but it was false benign in 5 (2.6%) cases. Preoperative MRI was utilized in 48 patients (25%). Twenty (10%) malignancies included 16 salivary gland carcinomas. Pleomorphic adenomas accounted for 52% of all adenomas. For 24 (40%) Warthin tumors, surgery was omitted. Conclusion The proportion of malignancies was lower than generally presented. Our proposed guidelines include ultrasound‐guided FNAC with certain limitations. MRI is warranted in selected cases, but seems unnecessary routinely.