Myth: Salivary gland tumours are always cancerous.
Fact: Salivary gland tumours can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign tumours are more common and have a good prognosis.
Myth: Salivary gland tumours always cause pain.
Fact: Not all salivary gland tumours cause pain. Some tumours may be painless, especially in the early stages. Pain or discomfort may or may not be present.
Myth: Salivary gland tumours are always visible or palpable.
Fact: Salivary gland tumours may or may not be visible or palpable. Some tumours may be deep-seated and not readily apparent without imaging tests or a thorough examination.
Myth: Salivary gland tumours are contagious.
Fact: Salivary gland tumours are not contagious. They are not caused by an infection and cannot be transmitted from one person to another.
Myth: Salivary gland tumours always require immediate surgery.
Fact: The treatment approach for salivary gland tumours depends on various factors, such as tumour type, size, location, and malignancy. Surgery may be recommended, but other treatment options like radiation therapy or observation may be appropriate in certain cases.
Myth: Salivary gland tumours always recur after treatment.
Fact: While some salivary gland tumours have a higher risk of recurrence, not all tumours will recur. The risk of recurrence depends on factors such as tumour type, stage, and treatment effectiveness.
Myth: Salivary gland tumours only affect older adults.
Fact: Salivary gland tumours can occur at any age, although they are more common in adults, particularly those over the age of 50. However, they can also affect younger individuals.
Myth: Salivary gland tumours always require the removal of the salivary gland.
Fact: The extent of surgical intervention depends on the specific tumour characteristics. In some cases, only the tumour itself needs to be removed while preserving the function of the salivary gland.
Myth: Salivary gland tumours always lead to facial paralysis.
Fact: While facial weakness or paralysis can occur in advanced cases, not all salivary gland tumours cause facial paralysis. The impact on facial function depends on the tumour’s location and involvement of nearby nerves.
Myth: There is no hope for successful treatment of salivary gland tumours.
Fact: With advancements in diagnostic techniques, treatment modalities, and ongoing research, the prognosis for salivary gland tumours has improved. Early detection, appropriate treatment, and regular follow-up care contribute to better outcomes.
It’s important to dispel myths and provide accurate information about salivary gland tumours to ensure patients have a clear understanding of the condition and make informed decisions about their care. Consulting with healthcare professionals and seeking reliable sources of information is crucial for accurate knowledge.
