English

Abstract

Salivary gland calculus / Sialolithiasis is the most common disease of the salivary glands. Sialolithiasis is most commonly found in the submandibular gland and it's duct (Wharton's duct). Giant salivary gland stones measuring over 3cm are extremely rare with only scanty reported cases1. This report describes the case of a patient who had a painless very rare giant Submandibular sialolith visible per orally on the floor of mouth. A 5× 2 cm sized stone was excised. INTRODUCTION: Sialolithiasis (also termed salivary calculi, or salivary stones), is a condition where a calcified mass forms within a salivary gland. The term is derived from the Greek words sialon (saliva) and lithos (stone), and the Latin -iasis meaning process or morbid condition. Sialolithiasis is the most common disease of salivary glands 1. Stones or calculi can be found in all major and minor salivary glands and their ducts. More than 80 % of the c alculi are found in Submandibular gland and its duct (more common) 2. Parotid gland accounts for 10% of cases. Remaining cases involve Sublingual and minor salivary glands2. Submandibular calculi are most commonly seen in young and middle aged adults with equal affection of both sexes3. Longer and upward course of the submandibular duct, non- dependent drainage, high calcium and mucin content, more viscid secretion are the factors which favour the formation of submandibular duct stones 3. Bilateral or multiple gland sialolithiasis occurs in less than 3% of cases4. Commonly sialoliths measure from 1mm to less than 1cm. Giant salivary gland stones (GSGS) are those stones measuring over 1.5cm and have been rarely reported. GSGS measuring over 3cm are extremely rare with only scanty reported cases 5. The aim of this case report is to highlight a case of a very rare giant sialolith.