Pleomorphic adenoma of the submandibular gland: A case report

Abstract

Salivary gland tumours are relatively rare and constitute about 3-4 % of head and neck tumours. Most of the tumours arise from parotid glands. Submandibular gland tumours are very rare. Pleomorphic adenoma of the submandibular gland is exceedingly rare tumour. Very few studies have been reported in the literature that is exclusively conducted on pleomorphic adenoma affecting submandibular gland. Patients usually present with a slow growing, painless and mobile mass without any other associated symptoms. Radiologic studies are usually unable to differentiate benign from malignant tumours in most cases. Recurrence is rare with complete en bloc excision of the tumour along with submandibular gland. Prognosis is excellent except for the rare cases of malignant transformation. This paper describes a case of pleomorphic adenoma affecting submandibular gland with brief review of current literature on submandibular gland tumours.