Neck masses secondary to heterotopic salivary gland tissue: a 25-year experience

Heterotopic salivary tissue in periparotid and upper cervical nodes is a more common occurrence than historically recognized. Tumorigenic changes arise from heterotopic nodal inclusions, and although infrequent, should be considered in the differential diagnosis for isolated neck/periparotid masses and parotid Warthin's tumor. Suggested management, after a thorough clinical exam/needle aspiration biopsy, includes an imaging survey of the parotid gland and neck lymphatics with an appropriate resection to include a simple excision, parotidectomy, neck dissection, and/or irradiation as indicated. Isolated low-grade malignant lesions/benign lesions are adequately managed by excision or parotidectomy alone. High-grade malignant lesions require more extended surgery with possible irradiation.