Living with Salivary gland small cell carcinoma
A very rare, fast-spreading cancer of the salivary glands.
Understanding Salivary gland small cell carcinoma
Salivary glands include the glands in the floor of the mouth, the parotid glands, and the submandibular glands. This type is very aggressive and can spread. GARD says distant spread is almost always present when it is found. Under a microscope the cells are small and arranged in sheets, strands, and nests.
Signs & symptoms
GARD doesn't list specific symptoms for this condition yet.
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Your doctor may refer you to a specialist who knows rare conditions.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- A doctor familiar with rare conditions, plus specialists as needed
- Expert care
- Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with rare disease patient organizations for support
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
GARD doesn't describe a cause for this condition yet.
Also known as: anaplastic small cell carcinoma of salivary gland; anaplastic small cell carcinoma of the salivary gland; neuroendocrine carcinoma of salivary gland; neuroendocrine carcinoma of the salivary gland; saliva-secreting gland small cell carcinoma; salivary gland anaplastic small cell carcinoma
Patient organizations
Rare-disease groups that can help
- Global GenesRare Diseases · United States
- National Organization for Rare DisordersRare Diseases · United States
- Genetic AllianceRare Diseases · United States
- RARE FoundationRare Diseases · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Salivary gland small cell carcinoma.
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