Anat Cell Biol.  2023 Mar;56(1):9-15. 10.5115/acb.22.118.

The clinical anatomy of the accessory submandibular gland: a comprehensive review

• Yazbeck A
• Iwanaga J
• Walocha JA
• Olewnik
• Tubbs RS

• KMID: 2540979
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5115/acb.22.118

Abstract

An accessory submandibular gland is a rare variation. As such, there is limited literature regarding the embryology, anatomy, variations, clinical imaging, and pathology of the accessory submandibular gland. In this article, we review the existing literature on the accessory submandibular gland from clinical and anatomical perspectives. The goal of this review is to provide comprehensive knowledge of this variation which can be useful for oral and maxillofacial/head and neck surgeons, radiologists, and anatomists. Within this review, the embryologic origin as well as the anatomy of the accessory submandibular gland is detailed. Several imaging modalities which can be used to visualize the accessory submandibular gland are outlined as well as its variations. Lastly, this review investigates several reported clinical considerations regarding the accessory submandibular gland including sialoliths, Wharton’s duct obstruction, and pleomorphic adenoma.

Keyword

Submandibular gland; Salivary gland; Gross anatomy; Clinical anatomy

Figure

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  Fig. 1 The accessory submandibular gland (arrow) was noted on left side in 85 years-old at death male cadaver. The gland was located superior to the mylohyoid muscle (the main submandibular gland is removed).

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  Fig. 2 Masson-trichrome staining of the accessory submandibular gland shown in Fig. 1. The rectangular area in the upper left corner is magnified. Note that the gland tissue is filled with mucinous gland. Scale bar: 200 μm.

Reference

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