Investigations In Salivary Gland Disorders: DE

Salivary gland diseases comprise a diverse group of inflammatory, obstructive, autoimmune, and neoplastic conditions that often present with nonspecific symptoms such as swelling, pain, xerostomia, or functional impairment. Due to the complex anatomy of salivary glands and their proximity to vital structures, clinical examination alone is frequently insufficient for accurate diagnosis. Imaging therefore plays a crucial role in evaluation and management. Contrast-enhanced multidetector CT is the most commonly used modality because of its speed, high spatial resolution, and ability to assess lesion extent, bone involvement, and lymphadenopathy. Ultrasonography serves as a useful initial tool for superficial lesions but is limited in deep or complex pathology. MRI provides superior soft tissue characterization and is valuable in selected cases such as perineural spread or skull base involvement. Functional imaging modalities including PET/CT, scintigraphy, SPECT/CT, and advanced MRI techniques enhance diagnostic accuracy, staging, and differentiation of lesions. An integrated multimodal imaging approach, combined with clinical assessment, is essential for optimal diagnosis, treatment.