Hi, my name is Carla and I would very much like to hear from anyone who has had a sublingual tumour. From what I understand, it only affects 1 in 100,000 people so I have been feeling pretty isolated. I must add that I have not been diagnosed yet, but the swelling is growing and the hospital are putting pressure on me to remove my sublingual gland. It would really appreciate any advice you might be able to give.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Dr Vinod K Joshi,

Hello Carla

If you haven't been diagnosed with having a sublingual gland tumour, I suggest you don't assume that's what you have! Sublingual glands are the smallest of the major salivary glands which are paired (L + R) so if you did have one removed, it wouldn't affect you significantly. I would expect you to be able to eat, talk and carry on normally.

Let us know how you get on.

Best wishes
Vinod

Hi Vinod, my doctor has just told me that my swelling IS a tumour so now I'm getting a bit confused. He said that the difference lies in whether it's benign or malignant and that the term 'tumour' does not in itself indicate malignancy. I was hoping to hear from people who have had their salivary glands removed as this is what is being suggested for me and it would give me considerable support at a time whenI'm feeling concerned. Thank, Carla

Hello Carla

A tumour is a swelling/mass. Not all tumours are cancers. Only those that grow, spread and pose great risk to the patient are 'malignant.' Hope that helps.

Best wishes
Vinod