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Warthin tumor
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Overview
Warthin tumor is an unusual growth of cells (tumor) in a salivary gland. The first symptom is usually a painless, slow-growing bump in front of the ear, on the bottom of the mouth, or under the chin.[1][2] Warthin tumors may increase in size over time, but few become cancerous. Though the cause is currently unknown, smoking is believed to increase the chance of developing Warthin tumor. Treatment may consist of surgery to remove the tumor or careful observation to watch for changes in the tumor over time.[1]
References
- Thangarajah T, Reddy VM, Castellanos-Arango F, Panarese A. Current controversies in the management of Warthin tumour. Postgraduate Medical Journal. 2009. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19240281. Accessed October 9, 2012.
- Salivary Gland Tumors. MedlinePlus. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001040.htm. Accessed October 8, 2012.
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