Warthin’s tumor

Overview

Warthin's tumor or Warthin tumour, also known as papillary cystadenoma lymphomatosum, is a type of benign tumor of the salivary glands.

Symptoms

Swollen salivary gland Lump near back of lower jaw Asymptomatic Jaw pain Sensation of pressure

Causes

Warthin's tumor primarily affects older individuals (age 6-7 years). There is a slight female predilection according to recent studies, but historically it has been associated with a strong male predilection. This change is possibly due to the tumor's association with cigarette smoking and the growing use of cigarettes by women. The tumor is slow growing, painless, and usually appears in the tail of the parotid gland near the angle of the mandible. In 5—14% of cases, Warthin's tumor is bilateral, but the two masses usually are at different times. Warthin's tumor is highly unlikely to become malignan

Treatment

Most of these tumors are treated with surgical removal. Recurrence is rare, occurring in 6—12% of cases.