What are the symptoms of salivary gland cancer?

Salivary gland cancer symptoms can vary, may not be noticeable or may seem similar to those of other chronic diseases. If you do have any symptoms, especially those that last longer than two weeks, it’s important to see your doctor.

Symptoms can include:

  • Painless lump near the ear, cheek, jaw, lip or inside the mouth
  • Fluid draining from the ear
  • Trouble swallowing or opening the mouth widely
  • Numbness or weakness in the face
  • Pain in the face that won’t go away

How is salivary gland cancer diagnosed?

At Miami Cancer Institute, our internationally recognized salivary gland cancer experts work together across many medical disciplines (known as a multidisciplinary approach) to provide you with the most advanced, comprehensive diagnostics available today – all under one roof and all conveniently located in South Florida.

Our expert multidisciplinary team begins by determining your complete family history and providing you with a thorough physical examination. This includes blood tests and state-of-the-art advanced imaging and laboratory tests, all with a compassionate, patient-centered focus. 

When you’re diagnosed with salivary gland cancer at the Institute, our expert healthcare team uses a variety of personalized tests, depending on what is right for you. This can include:

  • Biopsy to examine tumor tissues and determine the specific kind of cancer present 
  • Imaging studies that may include X-raysCT (Computed Tomography), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) or PET (Photo Emission Tomography)
  • Endoscopy to view the upper airways and inside the nostrils, throat and vocal cords
  • Laryngoscopy, which enables the specialists to use a mirror or a thin, flexible, lighted tube to view areas of concern

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