What is the most common benign salivary gland tumor?

The most common benign salivary gland tumor is pleomorphic adenoma. This tumor, often referred to as a "benign mixed tumor," primarily affects the parotid gland but can also occur in other salivary glands. Pleomorphic adenomas are characterized by a mixture of both epithelial and mesenchymal (stromal) tissues, giving them a unique histological appearance.

Clinically, these tumors typically present as a painless swelling, and although they are benign, they can grow quite large and may occasionally undergo malignant transformation if not excised in a timely manner. The prevalence of pleomorphic adenoma in the salivary glands—accounting for over 50% of all salivary gland tumors—further reinforces its status as the most common types of benign salivary gland tumors.

In contrast, mucoepidermoid carcinoma is a malignant tumor and not benign, adenoid cystic carcinoma also is a malignant tumor known for its aggressive nature, and carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma arises from a pre-existing pleomorphic adenoma, indicating a malignant change, and thus does not classify as a benign tumor in its own right. Understanding that pleomorphic adenoma is benign and prevalent among salivary gland tumors highlights its