Profile of parotid gland tumours: Experience of 93 cases over a period of 16 years

Objective The pathology of the salivary glands focuses on that of the parotid gland. The purpose of this study is to clarify and explain the epidemiological features of parotid tumors in a Senegalese context, to highlight the importance of clinical examination when access to complementary investigations is limited, to discuss respective indications and finally to describe certain aspects of treatment in our context. Materials and methods This retrospective study of 114 cases of parotidectomy spans 16 years, from 1992 to 2007. It was performed in the ENT department of University Hospital of Fann, Senegal. All patients operated on for chronic mass of the parotid region for whom histological results were available when initially included. Benign swellings were subsequently excluded. The study parameters were epidemiological, clinical, paraclinical and surgical. Results The 114 parotidectomies showed a predominance of benign tumours: 63 procedures (55.26%) essentially concerned pleomorphic adenoma; 30 cases (26.31%) concerned malignant tumours, mainly parotid adenocarcinoma. There were 21 cases of benign swelling (18.4%). The study focused on the series of 93 cases of benign and malignant tumours of the parotid gland. Both sexes were affected similarly. All age groups were concerned, from 5 to 89 years. A total of 97% of patients underwent surgery: conservative total parotidectomy in 75.51% of cases. Conclusion Although there are features specific to the local context, the epidemiological profile of parotid tumours is well-known. Indications for complementary investigations are discussed, as availability in Senegal is restricted, highlighting the important role of clinical examination in the management of parotid tumours.