Can Stenosis In The Wharton's Duct Lead To Cancer?

Posted on Wed, 10 Dec 2014

Question: Can a stenosis in the whartons duct lead to cancer if the salivary gland swells sometimes because it can't empty?

Answered by Dr. Abubakar Siddiqh (48 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
needs periodic followps.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I had gone through your question and understand your concerns.

As per your details, wharton's duct (a duct opens or connects, submandibular gland and the space under the surface of tongue) carcinoma is possible in patients with-

1.In patients with chronic obstruction due to infections (sialadenitis)

2. Stone (calculus) causing the obstruction of patency of duct and accumulation of saliva leading to enlargement of corresponding side of sub mandibular gland.

It is least common, advise her to have repeated periodic follow ups, in case of strong suspicion.

Hope this answers your question, if you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.

Wishing you good health.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Abubakar Siddiqh (1 hour later)

Thanks for your answer. This person made a movement during a dental visit which resulted in a dental bur nicking the floor of the mouth. She had surgery to correct a stenosis of the duct which she said was leading to dry mouth and swelling of the gland. She is worried about cancer because of blockage of the duct and periodic swelling of the gland although it is unclear if she gets this swelling. Anyway would you say that even with this the chances for developing cancer of this gland are remote?

Answered by Dr. Abubakar Siddiqh (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
ultrasound ,sialoendoscopy

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for considering my answer and for your follow up.

In my opinion, she has to undergo ultrasound or sialoendoscopy for locating the site of block (proximal or distal). There are different types of surgical procedures,(depending on the site of block) are done to prevent re stenosis, so that one can prevent carcinoma.

I hope my answers will help you, all the best, take care.

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T