Salivary Gland Biopsy: When Is It Performed?
Glands are a group of organs specialized in the production and secretion of vital substances for the human body. The study of its anatomy and function is useful in the diagnosis of certain diseases. Are you interested in knowing when a salivary gland biopsy is performed? We will tell you below.
Salivary glands are found in the mouth and in the proximal part of the digestive tract , their essential function being the production of saliva for digestion. Studies affirm that due to their vascularization and anatomy, they are prone to multiple inflammatory and infiltrative conditions, their dysfunction being a warning sign to suspect certain disorders.
What is a salivary gland biopsy?
From an anatomical and functional point of view, the salivary glands are divided into major and minor or accessory glands . The first group is formed by the parotid gland, located on the masseter muscle; the sublingual, under the tongue; and the submandibular gland , located on the floor of the oral cavity.
Salivary gland biopsy consists of the controlled extraction of a small fragment of tissue or the entire gland for subsequent histopathological study. This test can only be performed by trained professionals and is indicated in specific cases.
When is a salivary gland biopsy performed?
In most cases, salivary gland biopsy is performed when there is clinical suspicion of tumor or infiltrative tissue processes . Research states that salivary gland tumors account for up to 5% of head and neck tumors, with the majority being benign.
In this sense, glandular biopsy allows us to determine the type of lesion and, based on this result, establish the medical procedure to follow. Likewise, the test is usually indicated when there is suspicion of an obstructive process in glandular drainage.
On the other hand, some authors claim that salivary gland biopsy is one of the main criteria for the diagnosis of Sjögren’s syndrome . This is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by a dysfunction in the secretion of saliva and tears by the glands.
Preparations for the exam
No special preparations are needed to perform a puncture salivary gland biopsy . However, it is advisable not to consume food or drinks for 6 to 8 hours before the exam.
Additionally, the specialist may indicate the temporary cessation of anticoagulants a couple of days before the test. This, in the event that the patient is a regular consumer of them.
How is a salivary gland biopsy performed?
The glandular biopsy is usually performed in a doctor’s office. The technique of choice is fine needle aspiration biopsy . The latter facilitates the extraction of a small sample of salivary gland without producing adverse effects.
To take the sample, the area where the approach will be carried out will first be cleaned and sterilized with isopropyl alcohol. Subsequently, a local anesthetic will be administered that will numb and eliminate pain in the area. The patient may feel a small prick and then lose sensation.
Once the approach site is prepared, the specialist will introduce the biopsy needle until it reaches the salivary gland to be evaluated . This may cause mild pressure or discomfort for 1 to 2 minutes. In this way, a small portion of the glandular tissue will be aspirated and extracted, which is placed on a slide to be sent to the laboratory.
In the case of salivary gland biopsy for Sjögren’s syndrome, it is likely that greater administration of anesthetic will be required and multiple tissue collections from different glands will be performed. In this sense, some sutures may be placed at the access site. The area may remain tender and red for days after the procedure .
Analysis of the results
The results of this test are reported by a specialized pathological laboratory. Normally, the glandular tissue is intact and without abnormal growths or signs of tumor lesions.
However, salivary gland biopsy can be positive in case of inflammatory processes, infections, infiltrations and proliferation of cancer cells. Likewise, cellular dysfunction and tissue atrophy are signs of Sjögren’s syndrome. Another pathology that can be identified is sarcoidosis .
Risks of salivary gland biopsy
Salivary gland biopsy is a relatively safe procedure with a low rate of adverse effects. Some of the risks associated with this procedure include the following:
- Infection .
- Hemorrhage.
- Allergy to anesthesia.
- Injury to the trigeminal or facial nerve.
- Numbness of the lip or facial skin.
Additionally, some patients experience mild pain and discomfort in the days following the procedure , which can be relieved with over-the-counter pain relievers. On the other hand, you should seek medical attention if you experience the following symptoms:
- Fever.
- Bleeding.
- Swelling and pain that does not subside.
- Difficulty breathing and swallowing.
- Fluid leakage at the puncture site.
Steps to follow after the biopsy
Salivary gland biopsy is a diagnostic procedure that allows evaluating the anatomy and microscopic function of glandular tissue. In this way, tumor diseases and other conditions , such as Sjögren’s syndrome, can be detected .
