Why Choose Us for Salivary Gland Cancer Care
At Huntsman Cancer Institute, you receive expert, highly specialized care for rare cancers of the salivary glands through our Head and Neck Cancers Disease Center. We combine surgical, medical, radiation, reconstructive, and supportive care expertise to help you achieve the best possible outcome for this complex disease. We work with you to create a comprehensive treatment plan that’s focused on your needs and goals. Our approach balances evidence-backed research with preservation of function to help you maintain your quality of life.
"My doctor is an excellent physician, provides superb care, and explains procedures and diagnoses in easy-to-understand terms. If you're looking for a superb cancer surgeon, look no further."
—Salivary Gland Cancer Patient
Treatments We Offer
Treatment depends on your cancer stage, location, and preferences. These are common options:
Our Expertise
As the National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center serving the Mountain West, we’re here to offer you the latest treatments and the highest level of care available. Here are just a few of our areas of expertise:
- Individualized treatment plans tailored to tumor location and extent
- Systemic therapies including chemotherapy and targeted treatments
- Precision radiation techniques that minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue
- Diagnostic insights tailored to the diverse biology of salivary gland cancers
- Speech, swallowing, and physical therapy to enhance recovery and quality of life
Patient Care Philosophy
We believe no one should face cancer alone. Our dedicated and world-renowned doctors, nurses, and medical staff are at the forefront of patient-centered care. We treat the whole person, not just their cancer.
Each day, our medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists work together across disciplines to create and coordinate treatment plans for every patient. We understand cancer is a complex disease. That is why we use a team approach that includes social workers and support groups, as well as wellness and integrative health services such as acupuncture, massage, creative arts, and more.
Find a Salivary Gland Cancer Doctor
Head and Neck/Salivary Gland Cancer Research and Clinical Trials
Our expert research teams are working to improve treatment for head and neck cancers, especially in advanced cases. Through clinical trials, we engage in research on molecular profiling, targeted therapies, and treatment de-intensification for salivary malignancies, working to improve both survival and long-term quality of life.
By participating, you play an active role in advancing care and helping others facing the same diagnosis.
Interested in learning more?
Talk to your doctor about whether a clinical trial could be right for you.
Clinical Trials
Make an Appointment with a Salivary Gland Cancer
To make an appointment with a salivary gland cancer specialist, fill out our appointment form or call 801-587-7000. Our team will determine if your insurance covers treatment at Huntsman Cancer Institute or if you need a referral from a primary care doctor.
External providers can refer a patient using the online referral form or by calling 801-587-7000 to speak to a patient registration specialist.
Salivary Gland Cancer Basics
Salivary gland cancer is a rare disease in which malignant, or cancerous, cells form in the tissues of the salivary glands—including the parotid, submandiublar, sublingual, and minor salivary glands
These are the warning signs of salivary gland cancer:
- Ear drainage of fluid
- A lump, often painless, near ear, cheek, jaw, lip, or inside mouth
- Difficulty opening mouth or swallowing
- Facial numbness or weakness
- Persistent facial pain
Many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. If you are experiencing any concerning signs, please schedule a screening today.
These are the risk factors for salivary gland cancer:
- Older age
- Prior radiation to head & neck
- Occupational exposure to certain chemicals
Understand your risk. Schedule a genetic counseling session today.
Diagnosis
Doctors may use these to diagnose salivary gland cancer:
- Physical exam & history
- MRI, CT, and PET imaging
- Tissue sampling, known as biopsy
Staging
- Stage 1, 2, 3, 4 (4A, 4B, 4C) based on tumor size, if the cancer has entered the lymph nodes, and spread to other organs, known as metastasis
Need help navigating your care? The Cancer Learning Center is here to support you with personalized guidance, resources, and answers to your questions.
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