Lymphoma accounts for 15% of malignant salivary gland tumors. The parotid gland is the most commonly affected salivary gland (80%). It is generally seen in older men and women. It is associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and in approximately 6% of patients with Sjogrin's syndrome. There are two types: Hodgkin lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Parotid lymphoma may be primary or secondary (far more common). Primary lymphoma first involves the parotid gland and later other parts of the body including lymph nodes and bone marrow. Secondary lymphoma involves other parts of the body first, such as peripheral blood, lymph nodes, bone marrow, and other organs. Treatment depends upon stage, overall health, age, and subtype of lymphoma. It includes chemotherapy, total or radical parotidectomy, and radiotherapy. If there is no response, or the chance of recurrence is high, then bone marrow transplantation or stem cell transplantation can be considered.
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma involving the parotid gland: CT and MR imaging findings