Salivary gland cancer overview
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is a leading center in the treatment of salivary gland cancer. Together, our scientists and clinicians — from Fred Hutch and UW Medicine — provide hope for those with salivary gland cancer. UW Medicine is one of only three facilities in the United States that offers neutron therapy, an especially powerful kind of radiation therapy that's been shown to be effective against salivary gland tumors and some other forms of cancer.
As a patient here, you'll be cared for by a team of doctors, including a medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, and a surgeon. Fred Hutch was formed, in part, to bring promising new treatments to patients faster. This means that people who have salivary gland cancer will find more treatment options than might be found elsewhere, including participation in one of the clinical trials conducted at Fred Hutch and UW Medicine.
What to expect
A diagnosis of cancer or other serious illness can feel overwhelming. We have an experienced, compassionate team of specialists ready to help you adjust to what’s happening. We have dedicated information for patient’s Practical & Emotional Support.
Ask someone you trust to go with you to doctors' appointments and tests. This person can provide emotional support. A friend can also help by keeping track of the questions you want to ask, taking notes and doing research on your disease and treatment options.
Facts
Salivary glands make and release saliva that lubricates your mouth and throat, starts the digestion of your food, and coats the lining of the upper airway to help protect you from infections. Tumors, either benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer), can arise in any of these glands.
Treatment
Depending on the stage of your salivary gland tumor and the effects it’s having on your body, your doctor may recommend a combination of treatment options. The right treatment for you also depends on other factors, like the position, histology, and grade of your tumor, and your overall health. (Histology is the study of tissues and cells. The histology of your tumor relates to the nature of the tumor cells.)
Providers
At Fred Hutch, you receive care from a team of providers with extensive experience in your disease. Your team includes physicians, a patient care coordinator, a registered nurse, an advanced practice provider and others, based on your needs. You also have access to experts like nutritionists, social workers, acupuncturists, psychiatrists and more who specialize in supporting people with cancer or blood disorders.
Clinical trials
Fred Hutch was formed, in part, to bring promising new treatments to patients faster. For salivary gland cancer patients, this means more treatment options than you might find elsewhere, including the chance to participate in one of many ongoing clinical trials conducted at Fred Hutch and UW Medicine.
Resources
There are many resources online for learning about your disease. Health educators at the Fred Hutch Patient and Family Resource Center have compiled a list of trusted sources to help you get started.