Melanoma and the parotid gland: what to know

The parotid glands sit in front of and below the ears and produce saliva. Lymph nodes in or near this region can be involved when melanoma from nearby facial or scalp skin travels through lymphatic drainage. A parotid-area lump can also come from infection, a salivary-gland problem, or another condition; its presence does not by itself establish melanoma.

Evaluation may include a skin examination, inspection of the mouth and scalp, ultrasound or other imaging, and needle sampling. The team may examine facial movement because the facial nerve passes through the parotid gland.

Arrange prompt review for a new or enlarging lump near the ear or jaw, especially with a known melanoma, a changing nearby skin lesion, facial weakness, or persistent pain. Bring previous pathology and imaging reports if available, and mention weight change, night sweats, fever, or swallowing problems.

Treatment depends on whether the finding is a lymph node, salivary-gland lesion, or direct extension. Surgical planning may involve Tumour Removal Surgery or Skin Cancer Surgery. Immunotherapy may be discussed when melanoma is not managed by surgery alone.

Seek urgent care for sudden facial weakness, trouble breathing or swallowing, rapidly increasing neck or facial swelling, severe pain, or bleeding. A persistent parotid-area lump also warrants timely specialist review, even without pain, because examination is needed to determine its cause and next step.

Ask whether the lump is in the parotid gland or a nearby lymph node, which test will sample it, and whether imaging should include the head and neck. Ask how facial-nerve function will be protected, whether a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy is relevant, and how follow-up will be organised.