Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma Diagnosis and Treatment of Salivary Gland Cancer

Someone told you you have mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC). You may be overwhelmed, but this article will clarify MEC and your treatment options. The diagnosis and usual therapy of this salivary gland cancer will be covered in this post. It will also study adenoid cystic cancer and its differences from MEC. The post offers the information you need to discuss your diagnosis and treatment plan with your doctor. You got it! Get up to speed—knowledge is power.

Types of Salivary Gland CancerMucoepidermoid Carcinoma

MEC is a salivary gland cancer that develops in the mouth, sinuses, and salivary glands' mucous glands. Mucous cells that line most of the digestive tract and epidermal squamous cells that line the salivary ducts form MEC.

This cancer usually develops slowly over the years, although some cases are aggressive. MEC usually affects the parotid glands in front of the ears but can also affect the submandibular glands beneath the jaw or minor salivary gland across the mouth.

Early-stage MEC may produce no symptoms. Symptoms may include a painless lump or mass in the cheek, jaw, or roof of the mouth, numbness, loose teeth, or limited jaw or tongue mobility.

Diagnosing Salivary Gland Tumors and Cancers

Imaging tests

CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds show salivary glands and tumors in detail. These non-invasive examinations detect tumor size, location, and dissemination. Ultrasound creates images using sound waves and is often the initial step. CT and MRI scans use radiation, magnets, and contrast dye to create 3D images.

Biopsy

Cancer diagnosis requires a biopsy if imaging studies detect an abnormal growth. An initial fine needle aspiration biopsy extracts tumor cells with a thin needle. Under a microscope, cells are inspected. Core needle biopsy or incisional biopsy are options. These methods remove larger tissue samples for analysis. Biopsy analysis helps guide treatment by determining tumor kind and grade.

Treatment Options for Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma

Main mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) treatments include:

Surgery

Surgery is usually the first MEC treatment. Complete tumor removal and some healthy tissue are the goals. Partial or total salivary gland excision depends on tumor size and location. Local lymph nodes may be removed. MEC is best treated surgically.

Radiation therapy

High-energy radiation kills cancer cells. It can reduce the tumor before surgery or kill cancer cells after that. MEC treatment commonly involves intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to target the tumor while sparing healthy tissues.

Chemotherapy

Drug-based chemotherapy kills cancer cells. It is mainly reserved for advanced MEC cases with salivary cancer. Multiple chemotherapeutic medicines can be utilized. Medication helps reduce nausea, hair loss, and exhaustion from chemotherapy.