✅ Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma – The most common malignant parotid tumor, with varying aggressiveness.
✅ Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma – A slow-growing but invasive cancer that spreads along nerves.
✅ Acinic Cell Carcinoma – A less aggressive tumor with a good prognosis.
✅ Squamous Cell Carcinoma – An aggressive cancer often linked to sun exposure or smoking.
✅ Benign Parotid Tumors (Pleomorphic Adenoma, Warthin’s Tumor) – Non-cancerous growths that may require surgery if they enlarge.

🔵 Swelling or Lump in the Cheek or Jaw – A firm or painless growth near the ear.
🔵 Facial Weakness or Numbness – Tumor pressing on facial nerves can cause drooping or loss of movement.
🔵 Difficulty Swallowing – Larger tumors may obstruct the throat or affect salivary flow.
🔵 Persistent Pain – A dull ache or sharp pain in the jaw, ear, or face.
🔵 Ear Fullness or Hearing Changes – Pressure from the tumor affecting ear function.

✅ Genetic Mutations – DNA changes that trigger abnormal cell growth.
✅ Radiation Exposure – Prior head or neck radiation therapy increases risk.
✅ Viral Infections – Certain viruses like EBV (Epstein-Barr virus) may be linked to salivary gland cancers.
✅ Smoking and Alcohol Use – Long-term tobacco or alcohol consumption can contribute to malignancy.
✅ Prolonged Sun Exposure – Increases the risk of squamous cell carcinoma in the salivary glands.
✅ Workplace Chemical Exposure – Occupational hazards such as pesticides, asbestos, and industrial solvents may contribute.

🔵 Stage 1 – Small tumor (<2 cm) confined to the parotid gland.
🔵 Stage 2 – Tumor grows between 2-4 cm but does not spread.
🔵 Stage 3 – Cancer spreads to nearby tissues or lymph nodes.
🔵 Stage 4 – Advanced stage where cancer spreads to distant organs like lungs or bones.

✅ Physical Examination – Checking for lumps, facial weakness, or swelling.
✅ Ultrasound or MRI Scan – Imaging to assess tumor size and location.
✅ Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB) – A sample is taken to confirm malignancy.
✅ CT Scan or PET Scan – Used for staging and detecting cancer spread.

Surgery (Parotidectomy)

🔵 Partial Parotidectomy – Removes only the affected part of the gland.
🔵 Total Parotidectomy – Removes the entire gland if the cancer is widespread.
🔵 Facial Nerve Preservation or Reconstruction – If the tumor affects the facial nerve, nerve grafting or muscle transfers may be done.

Radiation Therapy

🔵 Used after surgery for high-grade or advanced tumors.
🔵 Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) helps target cancer cells while protecting healthy tissues.

Chemotherapy

🔵 Used for advanced-stage or metastatic cancer.
🔵 Drugs like cisplatin, doxorubicin, or carboplatin help shrink tumors.

Targeted Therapy

🔵 Precision medicine that attacks specific cancer cells without affecting normal cells.
🔵 Effective for certain genetic mutations found in parotid cancers

Facial Rehabilitation & Post-Surgical Care

🔵 Physical therapy helps regain movement if the facial nerve is affected.
🔵 Speech therapy may be needed if swallowing or speech is impacted.
🔵 Reconstructive surgery can restore cosmetic appearance and function if needed.

Parotid cancer surgery is a critical procedure to remove salivary gland tumors while preserving function and aesthetics. Early detection and treatment ensure better outcomes and improved quality of life. If you notice a persistent lump, swelling, or facial weakness, consult a specialist immediately.