The asymptomatic smooth palatal mass. A dangerously deceptive growth.
Occasionally, significant or even malignant disease may be asymptomatic or mimic a benign disorder. A neoplasm arising in a minor salivary gland is just such an entity. In evaluating these tumors, an adequate index of suspicion is integral to prompt diagnosis and early institution of treatment.
D000230:Adenocarcinoma / Q000175:diagnosis*; D000328:Adult; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010157:Palatal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery; D010160:Palate, Soft / Q000473:pathology; D011379:Prognosis; D012468:Salivary Gland Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery; D012469:Salivary Glands / Q000473:pathology*; D012470:Salivary Glands, Minor / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D013997:Time Factors