A pleomorphic adenoma is a benign neoplasm that forms in the
salivary gland. Although they start out benign they do have the
potential to become malignant. Most present as a single mass and
they can sometimes be mobile. Pleomorphic adenoma is the most
common type of salivary glad tumor and they are generally slow
growing. They are also sometimes called mixed tumors of the
salivary gland type. While pleomorphic adenoma can occur at any
age, they are most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 43 –
46. Pleomorphic adenoma is twice as common in women as they are
in men. While the cause is unknown it is believed to have links
to radiation exposure and also to simian virus. Signs & Symptoms
Pleomorphic adenoma is usually painless in the early stages. As
they grow larger they can cause complications in the mouth or
ears. When they interfere with the mouth patients see symptoms
such as difficulty swallowing, a hoarse throat or difficulty
chewing. Larger pleomorphic adenoma has the potential to
interfere with speech