Salivary duct stricture

Salivary Duct Stricture is a medical condition characterized by a narrowing or blockage of a salivary gland duct. This condition can lead to various symptoms such as swelling, pain, and infection. It is often caused by inflammation, trauma, or salivary stones.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The primary causes of Salivary Duct Stricture include:

Inflammation: Chronic inflammation of the salivary glands can lead to the formation of strictures. This can be due to various conditions such as Sjogren's syndrome or autoimmune diseases.
Trauma: Injury to the salivary glands or their ducts can result in strictures. This can occur due to surgical procedures, radiation therapy, or physical injury.
Salivary stones: These are crystallized minerals that form in the salivary ducts and can cause blockages leading to strictures.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of Salivary Duct Stricture can vary depending on the severity of the condition. They may include:

Swelling of the affected salivary gland
Pain in the mouth or face
Difficulty swallowing or speaking
Dry mouth
Recurrent salivary gland infections

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of Salivary Duct Stricture typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests such as ultrasound, sialography, or MRI. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to rule out other conditions such as salivary gland tumors.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for Salivary Duct Stricture depends on the cause and severity of the condition. It may include:

Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics may be prescribed to treat inflammation or infection.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the stricture or affected salivary gland.
Sialendoscopy: This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small endoscope to visualize and treat the stricture.