Advanced Diagnostic Methods for Salivary Glands Diseases: A Narrative Review Study

Effective diagnosis of salivary gland lesions and tumors requires a comprehensive understanding of the intricate composition of these glands. Salivary glands consist of diverse cell types, including epithelial, mesenchymal, ductal, and myoepithelial cells. The complex cellular architecture poses challenges in accurately diagnosing lesions or tumors. Furthermore, external factors such as infections, viruses, and genetic abnormalities that contribute to alterations can influence salivary gland pathophysiology. Therefore, it is crucial to thoroughly grasp the latest World Health Organization classification of salivary gland neoplasms for precise diagnosis and appropriate management. This study focuses on recent advancements in diagnostic methods to establish a practical approach for identifying salivary gland diseases. The researchers found that the best results were achieved when combining multiple salivary biomarkers. The screening protocol demonstrated high accuracy in diagnosing early oral squamous cell carcinoma by utilizing a combination of salivary biomarkers. In conclusion, the use of salivary biomarkers shows excellent promise in the early diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma.