Parotid Masses: What Radiologists Need to Know

Salivary gland neoplasms comprise a variety of pathologic entities that are not seen in any other organ.1 Salivary gland tumors are relatively rare and comprise less than 3% of all tumors.2 The parotid gland is by far the most frequent salivary gland involved by tumors. Only about 20% of parotid gland tumors in adults are malignant, whereas 35% of all salivary gland tumors in children are malignant. Among risk factors associated with parotid tumors are radiation exposure, tobacco use, sun exposure, and some viruses.3 This article reviews the most common malignant and benign parotid masses, with their clinical and imaging features.