Malignant Parotid Gland Tumours: A Case Series From A Tertiary Care Centre In Western Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

Background: Malignant parotid gland tumors are uncommon but aggressive lesions with diverse histological subtypes. Their diagnosis and management remain challenging, particularly in regions with limited data.

Objective: To describe the clinical presentation, histopathological spectrum, surgical management, and early outcomes of malignant parotid tumors in a tertiary care centre in Western Uttar Pradesh, India.

Materials and Methods: Eleven patients diagnosed with malignant parotid gland tumors between September 2023 and September 2024 were managed. Clinical evaluation, radiological assessment, and histopathological confirmation were performed. Surgical treatment included superficial or total parotidectomy, with adjuvant therapy where indicated. Postoperative complications and short-term outcomes were assessed during follow-up at 2 weeks and 1 month.

Results: The case series included 11 patients (6 females, 5 males) aged 22–68 years. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma was the most common malignancy (27.3%). Surgical procedures comprised superficial parotidectomy in 54.5% and total parotidectomy in 45.5%. Complications included transient facial nerve paresis (27.3%), neck hematoma (9.1%), and wound infection (9.1%). No immediate mortality occurred during follow-up.

Conclusion: Malignant parotid tumors, though rare, carry significant morbidity. Surgery remains the cornerstone of management, with adjuvant radiotherapy reserved for advanced disease. This case series highlights the clinical patterns and outcomes of parotid malignancies in a regional Indian setting.