SIALOLITHIASIS: SERIES OF 12 CLINICAL CASES

Abstract

Sialolithiasis is the most common form of obstructive sialadenitis. It is caused by the formation of a sialolith, a rigid structure generally consisting of an organic matrix and a mixture of different calcium phosphates. Its etiology is uncertain but could be a result of a chronic sialadenitis. The most affected gland is the submandibular. Although it may occur at any age, there is a prevalence in male adults older than 40 years. It can be either symptomatic or asymptomatic; the treatment varies from clinical control to physiotherapy to surgical procedures. This work presents a series of 12 cases. Four involved men and 8 involved women; mean age was 45 years. The most affected gland was the sublingual with 8 cases followed by submandibular with 3 and parotid with 1. In 10 cases there was surgical removal, and in 2 spontaneous resolution was seen. The clinical and imaging examination are fundamental for the conduction of sialolith cases.