| The correct answer is "d". No studies are needed. The clinical presentation is typical for a benign
tumor, especially a pleomorphic adenoma. Diagnostic
Studies:
The most important diagnostic procedure for benign and
malignant parotid tumors is surgical resection of the tumor. Termed "the grand
biopsy" by Conely (1970), this approach removes the tumor in it's entirety while
providing a diagnosis and curative therapy for most parotid tumors.
There are many tests available to aid in the
diagnosis of major salivary gland tumors, but they are not often necessary. These include
sialogram, CT sialogram, fine needle aspiration (FNA), CT scan, and MRI scan. CT scan and
MRI scan are helpful in the evaluation of extent of tumor and lymph node involvement where
this information is necessary for appropriate surgical management.
Fine needle aspiration offers the clinician the
ability to distinguish between salivary gland tumors and non-salivary pathology, such as
metastatic disease or lymphoma. However, FNA remains controversial in the diagnosis of
salivary gland tumors as the variety of cell types and morphology which can be
demonstrated make definitive diagnosis difficult.
Question #2:
What is the most common tumor of the
parotid gland?
- Warthin's Tumor
- Pleomorphic Adenoma
- Oncocytoma
- Mucoepidermoid carcinoma
- Adenocarcinoma
|