Hello

I've used the site lots over the past year - I've found it very helpful. It's the first time I've posted a message. Here goes..........

My Husband aged 29, was diagnosed with Acinic Cell Carcinoma of the minor salivary gland in July 2005. He underwent 2 operations to remove the tumour - the second one showed clear magins. No radiation was given.

He'd had a lump near his lip for a few years, had several visits to the GP to be told it's nothing. In May 2005 the GP finally made an appointment to see an ENT Consultants and then it all started.

My Hubby is doing very well, but I'm such a worry wort. I ask him every week (this used to be every day) how is mouth is and I'm constanly looking at his neck to check for any lumps. I'm terrible. Also he sometimes hicups after eating and I'm worried that the cancer may have spread to his gullet. Could this be possible?

I know it's heard for you to say but where in general does this type of cancer spread to? And what warning signs should we be looking out for?

Hospital check ups were every 3 months, but have now been moved to every 4. The Consultants checks the mouth and neck area. Is there anything else that we can do?

Sorry to ask so many questions.

Best Wishes to everyone out there.
GT
X

Hello GT

It is natural to worry, but you need to get back to leading a normal life and not be worrying all the time. Thankfully most times, ACC has a good prognosis.

Acinic cell carcinoma (ACC) is a rare, slow-growing, low-grade salivary gland cancer. Most ACC occur in the parotid gland, representing between 2 and 3% of all epithelial parotid neoplasms. The reported 10-year survival rate is approximately 70%. However, ACC has a tendency to develop local recurrence in 40 to 50% of the patients, usually within 5 years of surgery. Hence the follow-up and vigilance is required.

You may find the following sites useful:

Acinic Cell Carcinoma - This site is dedicated to ACC. It is maintained by Ed Stroke, a 20 year ACC patient. Ed has spent a great deal of time doing research on the subject.

You can read past discussions on ACC here. There are several members who you compare notes with. Hope that helps.

Best wishes
Vinod