Can a biopsy help in the diagnosis of minor oral gland lesions?

Question

Hello doctor,

A few weeks ago, a yellowish, firm, dome-shaped lump started to grow under my lower lip. It was visible only after pulling the lip down.

My oral and maxillofacial surgeon suspected it could be a minor salivary gland tumor, so he removed the lesion with the salivary gland and sent it for a biopsy.

However, before my doctor removed the lesion, it started to subside and grew to 10 mm in diameter, mobile within a 50 mm circumference, and non-tender on palpation. Could it be a malignant tumor?

Please provide me with more information. I can send images as well if required.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

All benign and malignant oral cavity tumors have very similar features; hence, a biopsy is needed when we suspect a tumor in the initial visit, irrespective of the color.

We cannot establish a confirmatory diagnosis unless the cell type is studied under the microscope and the oral pathologist determines whether there are benign or malignant cells in that lesion.

If it is a benign minor salivary gland tumor, it might be the most common pleomorphic adenoma. It has an excellent prognosis.

If the cancer is malignant, like lower lip cancers, it would be invasive, and you would need further treatment to prevent a recurrence.

When lesions are non-tender and smooth, it does not guarantee they are benign tumors. Only the cell type study after the biopsy will determine whether the cancer cells are benign or malignant.

I suggest you take my opinion once the biopsy report arrives, so I can confirm the treatment plan in detail. You may revert for any further queries.

Thank you.