A review of the tumors of the salivary gland.

Neoplasms of the salivary gland are an interesting, diverse group of tumors with many associated factors, which make them a therapeutic challenge. Their long natural history, the wide spectrum of biologic activity which they exhibit, the difficulty in diagnosis and their high rate of recurrence contribute to the complexity of their management. Operation is the principle method of treatment for these tumors, but radiation therapy plays a significant role in the control and palliation of malignant tumors of the salivary gland. It is the hope for the future that effective chemotherapy agents will contribute significantly to the treatment of malignant tumors of the salivary gland.