Ultrasound in Inflammatory and Obstructive Salivary Gland Diseases: Own Experiences and a Review of the Literature

Background: Ultrasound is established as a diagnostic tool in salivary glands for obstructive diseases such sialolithiasis and tumors. Concerning inflammatory non-sialolithiasis-caused obstruction, much fewer data are available. In recent years, technical development has allowed better assessment of the gland parenchyma, knowledge about intraductal pathologies increased considerably, which provided new insights interpretation ultrasound findings. Objectives: To provide comprehensive review literature that includes our own experiences to point out state art diagnostics diseases, taking adequate techniques developments into consideration. Data sources study eligibility criteria: A systematic search was performed Pubmed using various specific key words. Results: According results, including experiences, value up >90% cases presenting with and/or diseases. Technical (e.g., elastography) application modified transoral ultrasound) have contributed these results. Today, considered first-line However, some final diagnosis can be made only after inclusion anamnesis, clinical symptoms, serologic blood tests, or histopathologic investigation. Conclusions: it may sufficient cases. at least an excellent screening method used establish early suspicion. all contribute management monitoring during follow-up.