A salivary mucocele, also called a sialocele, is a condition of the salivary glands or ducts that creates a swollen lump in the neck near the jaw, under the tongue, or by the eye. It's a buildup of saliva that may resemble a cyst and, in dogs, it's usually treated with surgery. Learn about salivary mucoceles in dogs so you'll know what to expect if your dog has one.
A salivary mucocele is an accumulation of saliva that develops in the tissues near a salivary gland or duct due to leakage. Salivary mucoceles are also called sialoceles or salivary cysts. Though not technically cysts, the fluid buildup causes a swollen structure that resembles a cyst. Salivary mucoceles are soft, fluid-filled, and usually painless. While relatively uncommon in dogs, they're the most common type of salivary problem seen in dogs.
A salivary mucocele can affect various glands or associated ducts and usually looks and feels like a round lump. These swollen areas are not typically painful in the early stages unless they become large enough to put pressure on another part of the anatomy. Large or infected salivary mucoceles may cause dogs to show non-specific signs of illness, including lethargy and loss of appetite.
The specific signs of a salivary mucocele will depend on the type. There are four types of sialoceles, each named for the location where they occur.
The most common type of salivary mucocele is cervical, which occurs under the upper neck or jaw and originates from the sublingual or mandibular gland or duct. Swelling may occur in the middle of the neck/jaw or off to one side.
Another common sialocele occurs in the mouth under the tongue and comes from the submandibular gland or duct. The sialocele may be in the center or on one side and can displace the tongue if large enough. This particular type of sialocele is called a ranula or sublingual sialocele. Dogs may also have trouble eating or injure the sialocele when chewing.
In rare cases, a salivary mucocele develops from the small zygomatic salivary glands located beneath the eye. Facial swelling may appear near the eye and it may cause the eye to bulge.
Less commonly, a pharyngeal sialocele develops in the pharynx at the back of the throat and cannot be seen from the outside. This is similar to a cervical sialocele as it stems from the mandibular or submandibular glands or ducts. Pharyngeal sialoceles can make it hard for dogs to swallow and may cause breathing issues.
While the exact cause is unknown, a salivary mucocele is often the result of a traumatic injury to the salivary glands and ducts. Common types of injuries leading to sialoceles include:
Other potential causes of salivary mucoceles include:
Any dog breed can develop sialoceles, but German shepherds, dachshunds, poodles, greyhounds, and Australian silky terriers are more often affected. Contact your veterinarian if you notice swelling around your dog's head, face, or neck.
After discussing your pet's history, your veterinarian will perform a physical examination and look closely at the swollen area. They may want to collect a sample to make a definitive diagnosis, which involves three steps:
Without treatment, a salivary mucocele can become infected and abscessed. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any unusual swelling in the mouth or near the neck, jaw, or eye. A salivary mucocele typically requires draining and surgical intervention.
Most dogs with salivary mucoceles recover well from salivary gland removal surgery, and complications are rare. Your veterinarian will send your dog home with medications and instructions for basic home care. Follow your veterinarian's recommendations for post-operative care. Give medications as directed and keep the incision, drain sites, and any bandages clean and dry. Bring your dog back to the vet for follow-up visits as necessary.
Salivary mucoceles are uncommon in dogs, but pet parents can still take steps to prevent injuries . and illness. Here are a few ways to keep your dog healthy:
Contact your veterinarian if you notice an injury or swelling near your dog's mouth or neck. Treatment of a fresh injury may prevent the development of a salivary mucocele.
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