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Salivary glands are organs that often remain on the margins of our attention, but they play an important role in our body.They contain glands that produce saliva, which helps with digestion and maintaining a healthy mouth.Unfortunately, the salivary glands may be exposed to various diseases, including cancer.In such cases, salivary gland biopsy may be a key diagnostic procedure.In this article, we will take a closer look at this topic, discussing both the functions of the salivary glands and the details related to a salivary gland biopsy.
What is the function of salivary glands?
The salivary glands are responsible for the production of saliva, which is necessary for the proper functioning of our mouth and digestive system.Saliva contains digestive enzymes that help break down food, making digestion easier.In addition, saliva moisturizes our mouth, which is important for maintaining healthy teeth and preventing infections.Salivary glands also have a protective function, helping to cleanse the oral cavity of bacteria and harmful substances.
Salivary gland biopsy – what is it?
A salivary gland biopsy is a diagnostic procedure that involves taking a piece of tissue from one of our salivary glands for detailed microscopic analysis.It is an important tool in the identification and assessment of various salivary gland diseases, including cancer.This procedure allows doctors to obtain important information about the patient’s health and take appropriate treatment steps.
Indications for salivary gland biopsy
A salivary gland biopsy may be recommended in a variety of situations, including:
- In case of suspicion of salivary gland cancer.
- In the presence of abnormalities or nodules in the salivary glands.
- To evaluate for an inflammatory or autoimmune condition that may affect salivary gland function.
The decision to perform a salivary gland biopsy is made by the doctor based on the results of clinical and imaging tests.
Salivary gland biopsy – how is it performed?how to prepare for it?
Before performing a salivary gland biopsy, the patient is thoroughly informed about the procedure, its purpose and possible risks.The patient may also be asked to provide an up-to-date list of medications he or she is taking and to inform the doctor about any allergies.
The salivary gland biopsy procedure is usually as follows:
- The patient is placed in a lying or sitting position.
- The area of the salivary gland to be biopsied is thoroughly disinfected.
- The doctor administers local anesthesia to the salivary gland area to minimize pain.
- Using a special tool, the doctor removes a fragment of salivary gland tissue for further analysis.
- The collected material is then sent to the laboratory, where it is thoroughly examined under a microscope.
After the procedure is completed, the patient may experience minor discomfort or swelling in the area, which usually subsides within a few days.Your doctor will give you appropriate care instructions after the biopsy.
Complications after salivary gland biopsy
A salivary gland biopsy is a relatively safe procedure, but as with any medical intervention, there is a risk of complications.The most common complications are:
- Swelling or pain in the area where the sample was taken, which is usually mild and short-lived.
- Less commonly, infection at the treatment site, bleeding or nerve damage may occur.
Patients should consult a doctor if they experience any disturbing symptoms after salivary gland biopsy.
Your suggestions
If you have questions about a salivary gland biopsy or would like more information on this topic, it is always a good idea to consult your doctor or a specialist in maxillofacial surgery.Remember that early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis of salivary gland diseases.
Recommended articles
If you are interested in salivary gland health and diagnostics, we recommend reading the following articles:
- “Prevention of salivary gland diseases – how to take care of your health”
- “Salivary gland tumors – symptoms, diagnosis and treatment”
- “The role of salivary glands in maintaining a healthy oral cavity”
Remember that regular visits to the dentist and awareness of your health are crucial to maintaining healthy salivary glands and mouth.