Salivary gland tumor secondary prevention

Secondary prevention strategies following salivary gland cancer include follow-up visits every 6-8 weeks for the first year, every 2-3 months in the second year, every 3-4 months in the third year, and then every 6-12 months for life.^[1]

After treatment has ended, new symptoms and symptoms that don’t go away should be reported to the doctor without waiting for the next scheduled appointment. These may include the following:^[1]

• Any new lump or swelling
• Pain or an increase in pain
• Difficulty swallowing

The chance of salivary gland cancer recurring is greatest within the first 2–3 years, so close follow-up is needed during this time. Because salivary gland cancer can return many years later, lifelong follow-up is necessary.

Schedule for follow-up salivary gland cancer includes the following:

• Every 6–8 weeks for the first year
• Every 2–3 months in the second year
• Every 3–4 months in the third year
• Then every 6–12 months for life

During a follow-up visit, the doctor usually asks questions about the side effects of treatment and how the person is coping. The doctor may do a complete physical examination, including:

• Examining the site of surgery
• Feeling the neck lymph nodes for any swelling
• Asking about numbness or weakness of the facial muscles
• Tests may be ordered as part of follow-up or if the doctor suspects the cancer has recurred

A chest x-ray may be done every 6 months for the first 2–3 years after treatment to see if the cancer has spread to the lungs. If a recurrence is found during follow-up, the oncology team will assess the person with cancer to determine the best treatment options.

Template:WikiDoc Sources