Salivary Glands: Structure, Functions and Regulation (Original PDF from Publisher)

Salivary Glands: A Comprehensive Examination of Structure, Functions, Regulation, and Clinical Significance

miRNAs and lncRNAs in Salivary Gland Biology

Salivary glands play a crucial role in maintaining oral health and overall well-being. Studies have unveiled the involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in various aspects of salivary gland biology, including:

• Development and Physiology: miRNAs and lncRNAs contribute to the proper formation, differentiation, and function of salivary glands.
• Tumorigenesis and Progression: Dysregulation of miRNAs and lncRNAs has been linked to the development and progression of salivary gland tumors, including salivary gland carcinoma.
• Other Pathologies: miRNAs and lncRNAs may play a role in non-neoplastic salivary gland conditions, such as sialadenitis and salivary gland calculi.
• Circulating Biomarkers: miRNAs and lncRNAs present in saliva can serve as potential biomarkers for diagnosing and monitoring various pathologies, including salivary gland diseases.
• Therapeutic Targets: Targeting miRNAs and lncRNAs could provide new avenues for therapeutic intervention in salivary gland disorders.

Clinical Management of Parotid Tumors

Parotid tumors are the most common type of salivary gland tumors. Clinicians must carefully assess and manage these tumors to ensure optimal outcomes. The article reviews:

• Diagnostic Assessment: The importance of thorough physical examination, imaging studies, and fine-needle aspiration biopsy in accurately diagnosing parotid tumors.
• Surgical Approaches: A detailed overview of various surgical techniques, including superficial parotidectomy, total parotidectomy, and facial nerve dissection, is provided.
• Radiation and Chemotherapy: The role of radiation therapy and chemotherapy in the treatment of parotid tumors, particularly in advanced or recurrent cases, is discussed.

Complications of Parotid Surgery and Management

The article also addresses the potential complications associated with parotid surgery, such as:

• Nerve Damage: The risk of damage to the facial nerve during surgery and the strategies for minimizing it.
• Recurrence: The causes and management of recurrent parotid tumors.
• Frey Syndrome: The development of excessive sweating on the face after parotidectomy.

Juvenile Recurrent Parotitis

Juvenile recurrent parotitis is a common childhood condition characterized by recurrent episodes of parotid swelling. The article examines:

• Clinical Presentation: The signs, symptoms, and differential diagnosis of juvenile recurrent parotitis.
• Etiology: The potential causes, including viral infections, autoimmune disorders, and genetic factors.
• Diagnostic Modality: The use of ultrasound and sialography in the diagnosis of juvenile recurrent parotitis.
• Sialoendoscopy: The role of sialoendoscopy in the diagnosis, management, and prevention of recurrent attacks of juvenile recurrent parotitis.