Experimental Salivary Gland Tumorigenesis

¹ Indiana University, School of Dentistry, Department of Oral Pathology, Indianapolis, Indiana

A series of studies has been carried out to investigate experimental tumorigenesis in the salivary glands of rats and mice under a variety of conditions. Several carcinogenic hydrocarbons were tested, as well as the effect of desiccated thyroid, testosterone, and X-ray radiation on tumor induction.

Attempts were also made to induce salivary gland tumors by painting the palates with carcinogens, adding carcinogens to the diets, and introducing foreign materials into the gland.

Tumors produced were epidermoid carcinomas, although occasional stromal sarcomas also developed. No benign tumors were found or any form of adenocarcinoma.