Cancer Treatment

Salivary Gland Cancer: Current Treatments and Future Progress

4 min read
Image of lungs

Salivary Gland Cancer: Current Treatments and Future Progress

Salivary gland cancer is a rare type of cancer that begins in the salivary glands, which are responsible for producing saliva. These glands are found in different areas of the mouth and throat, including under the tongue, in the cheeks, and near the jawbone. Salivary gland cancer is usually diagnosed in people over the age of 50, and its causes are not yet fully understood. However, there are some risk factors that have been identified, such as exposure to radiation, certain genetic conditions, and certain environmental factors.

Epidemiology of Salivary Gland Cancer

Salivary gland cancer accounts for approximately 3 to 5 percent of all head and neck cancers. It is a relatively rare form of cancer, with an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 new cases diagnosed in the United States each year. The incidence of salivary gland cancer varies depending on the specific type and location of the tumor. Overall, salivary gland cancer affects men more often than women, and the average age at diagnosis is around 60 years old.

Diagnosis of Salivary Gland Cancer

Diagnosing salivary gland cancer can be challenging due to its rarity and the diverse nature of the disease. The diagnosis usually involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, imaging tests (such as CT scans and MRI), and biopsy. A biopsy is the most definitive way to confirm the presence of cancer cells and determine the specific type of salivary gland cancer. Once diagnosed, further tests may be done to determine the extent and stage of the cancer.

Treatment of Salivary Gland Cancer

The treatment options for salivary gland cancer depend on various factors, including the type, stage, and location of the tumor, as well as the overall health of the patient. The primary treatment modalities include surgery, radiation therapy, and, in some cases, chemotherapy. Surgery is often the first line of treatment and involves removing the tumor and nearby lymph nodes, if necessary. Radiation therapy may be used after surgery to target any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. Chemotherapy may be recommended for advanced or metastatic cases.

Now, let's discuss the current treatments and future progress in clinical trials for salivary gland cancer.

Current Treatments for Salivary Gland Cancer

The most important drugs currently used to treat salivary gland cancer include:

  • Cisplatin: Cisplatin is a chemotherapy drug commonly used for various types of cancer, including salivary gland cancer. It works by damaging the DNA in cancer cells, preventing their growth and division.
  • Carboplatin: Carboplatin is another chemotherapy drug used to treat salivary gland cancer. It works in a similar way to cisplatin and is often used as an alternative or in combination with other chemotherapy drugs.
  • Radiotherapy: Radiotherapy, or radiation therapy, is a common treatment option for salivary gland cancer. It uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.

Promising Future Drugs in Clinical Trials

In late-stage clinical trials, there are several promising drugs being investigated for the treatment of salivary gland cancer. These include:

  • Pemigatinib: Pemigatinib is a targeted therapy that selectively inhibits certain proteins involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. It has shown promising results for patients with specific genetic mutations.
  • Adavosertib: Adavosertib is a targeted therapy that works by blocking enzymes involved in DNA repair, causing cancer cells to become more sensitive to radiation therapy.
  • Everolimus: Everolimus is a medication that inhibits the mTOR pathway, a key signaling pathway involved in cancer cell growth. It is being studied in combination with other drugs for the treatment of salivary gland cancer.

Although these drugs are still undergoing clinical trials, they show promise in improving treatment outcomes for patients with salivary gland cancer. Continued research and development in this field may lead to more effective and targeted therapies in the future.

Conclusion

Salivary gland cancer is a rare and complex disease that requires a multidisciplinary approach for diagnosis and treatment. Current treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the specific characteristics of the tumor. In addition, there are several promising drugs in late-stage clinical trials that show potential for improving treatment outcomes. As research in salivary gland cancer continues to advance, it is crucial to support ongoing clinical trials and explore new avenues for targeted therapies.