Book 4 - Self Instructional Manual for Cancer Registrars - SEER ...

Salivary GlandsThere are three pairs of major salivary glands:sublingual glands.the parotid, submandibular (submaxillary), and• The parotid glands, the largest of the major salivary glands, lie below and in front of the ears.They secrete primarily serous substances into the mouth by way of the parotid duct (Stensen'sduct).• The submandibular glands lie in contact with the inner surface of the mandible. They secreteprimarily serous substances into the mouth by way of the submandibular duct (Wharton's duct).• The sublingual glands lie beneath the mucosa of the floor of the mouth. They pour mucoussecretions into the mouth.In addition, there are minor salivary glands scattered throughout the mucous membrane coveringof the lips, cheeks, palate, and tongue. The salivary secretions may be thin and watery (produced byserous cells) or thick and viscid (produced by mucous cells).The salivary glands moisten and lubricate the mouth with continuous secretions of saliva.Malignantand Benign TumorsNeoplasms arising in salivary gland tissue are predominantly mixed tumors (pleomorphicadenomas). Since approximately 75 percent of these tumors are benign, they will not be reportedby most registries. Malignant tumors which you are likely to find are: mucoepidermoid carcinoma,squamous cell carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma. These tumors arise mostfrequently in the parotid.Figure 27./OstlaSALIVARY GLANDS.... Parotld ductj._ ,-JSubma adllOu taa. liar./Sulb IAn_at / lllLand185