Surveillance of resected parotid cancers – pro
Surveillance for parotid cancers is fraught with difficulties. The parotid is the only salivary gland with intra-parenchymal lymph nodes (5 to 7) that can collect metastatic cells; these nodes within the substance of the gland are not easily palpated and become visible only when they are enlarged. Distinguishing them from primary parotid gland tumors by means of palpation or by imaging can be difficult. Because parotid cancers continue to recur over time, surveillance must continue indefinitely, as local recurrence or distant metastases may become apparent many years after the initial treatment. There is no credible evidence, however, supporting PET imaging. The patient should undergo a thorough physical examination every 3 months for 2 years, every 6 months for another 3 years, then annually thereafter. Liver function tests and chest radiograph should be obtained annually.
References:
Mamlouk MD, Rosbe KW, Glastonbury CM. Paediatric parotid neoplasms: a 10 year retrospective imaging and pathology review of these rare tumours. Clin Radiol. Mar 2015;70(3):270-7.
Cederblad L, Johansson S, Enblad G, Engström M, Blomquist E. Cancer of the parotid gland; long-term follow-up. A single centre ..experience on recurrence and survival.Acta Oncol. 2009;48(4):549-55
http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1289616-overview#a30