Imaging of salivary glands

Abstract

Ultrasound is the investigation of choice for major salivary gland disease, reserving other techniques for further assessment in the minority of cases.Sialolithiasis is the most common salivary gland pathology, affecting the submandibular ducts in 80% of cases. Digital subtraction sialography is indicated when ultrasound is inconclusive or normal despite a convincing clinical history. Mobile calculi <7 mm in size are amenable to image guided endoluminal extraction. Strictures may undergo endoluminal balloon dilatation.Diffuse multiglandular parenchymal disease is non-specific and can be caused by viral sialadenitis, Sjogren's syndrome, sarcoidosis or benign lymphoepithelial cysts in HIV.There is an increased risk of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma of the salivary glands in Sjogren's syndrome and any dominant mass should be biopsied.A ranula is said to be plunging when it extends into the submental or submandibular triangles following rupture.All solitary salivary gland masses are neoplas...