Salivary glands are glands located in the mouth and various parts of the neck that secrete saliva. Diseases of these glands usually involve conditions that affect the production of saliva or obstruct the flow of saliva.
The most common diseases of the salivary glands are salivary stones or inflammation of the salivary glands. These can cause blockage of the salivary ducts or pain in the salivary glands. Other conditions that affect the salivary glands include salivary gland tumors, autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome, viral infections and trauma.
Salivary gland diseases require treatment options that vary depending on the symptoms and type of disease. Usually, treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms or stopping the progression of the disease. Treatment options may include medications, surgical removal of the salivary glands or radiotherapy. The treatment plan is determined depending on the patient's condition and the severity of the disease.