Preoperative diagnosis of salivary gland tumors

Czech version

Authors: M. Hyravý ¹; Ivo Stárek ¹; R. Salzman ¹; P. Beláková ¹; J. Čivrný ²
Authors‘ workplace: Klinika otorinolaryngologie a chirurgie hlavy a krku LF UP a FN Olomouc ¹; Radiologická klinika LF UP a FN Olomouc ²
Published in: Otorinolaryngol Foniatr, 75, 2026, No. 2, pp. 127-139.
Category: Review Article
doi: https://doi.org/10.48095/ccorl2026127

Overview

Salivary gland tumors represent a heterogeneous group of diseases with a wide spectrum of biological behavior. Preoperative diagnosis plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate therapeutic strategy and has a significant impact on surgical planning as well as overall patient prognosis. Despite advances in diagnostic modalities, distinguishing between benign and malignant lesions before surgery remains a challenge in many cases. Accurate preoperative assessment typically requires a combination of imaging, cytohistological, and clinical methods, and is characterized by a multidisciplinary approach. Ultrasound examination complemented by fine-needle aspiration biopsy is currently considered the standard diagnostic tool in the evaluation of salivary gland tumors. However, due to its limitations, additional methods are often employed to objectively assess the extent of disease and to determine the biological nature of the tumor, including its precise histopathological classification. This article aims to present the current possibilities in the preoperative diagnostic work-up of salivary gland tumors, with an emphasis on the benefits and limitations of various approaches in the context of therapeutic planning. Special attention is given to the reliability of preoperative prediction of tumor behavior and its potential invasiveness, both of which are critical factors influencing the extent of surgery and the need for further oncological treatment. A thorough understanding of this diagnostic process forms the basis for rational indication of paraclinical examinations in the management of salivary gland neoplasms.

Keywords:

diagnosis – neoplasms – salivary glands

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