clinical features
Last reviewed 01/2018
A pleomorphic adenoma usually presents as an asymptomatic, lump, which has been slowly enlarging for several years over or just behind the angle of the mandible. The vast majority occur in patients below the age of 50 years. Men and women are affected approximately equally.
They are commonly found in the lower pole of the parotid gland.
Notably, pain and tenderness are absent. The lesion may be of any size and is usually firm. It is not fixed to overlying structures or mucosa.
Pleomorphic adenomas may become very large yet still do not affect the facial nerve. Any facial weakness implies malignancy.