What is the most common benign salivary gland tumor?

Pleomorphic adenoma is recognized as the most common benign salivary gland tumor. It typically arises from the parotid gland, although it can occur in other salivary glands as well. This tumor is characterized by a mixture of different cell types and histological patterns, which is where it gets its name—“pleomorphic” refers to the variability in the types of cells found within the tumor.

Diagnosis is usually made based on clinical examination and imaging studies, followed by histological confirmation through biopsy. Treatment generally involves surgical excision, and the prognosis is excellent with a low recurrence rate when completely removed.

In contrast, although adenoid cystic carcinoma is a significant entity among salivary gland tumors, it is classified as a malignant tumor, making it less relevant in the context of benign tumors. Warthin's tumor is the second most common benign salivary gland tumor and is typically found in the parotid gland as well, but it does not surpass pleomorphic adenoma in terms of prevalence. Lastly, basal cell adenoma is quite rare compared to pleomorphic adenoma and is not typically recognized as one of the most common benign salivary gland tumors. Thus, the characteristics and prevalence of pleomorphic adenoma