Australian Dental Council (ADC) Practice Test

The most common tumor of the parotid gland is the pleomorphic adenoma. This type of tumor is also referred to as a benign mixed tumor because it contains both epithelial and mesenchymal (stromal) components. Pleomorphic adenomas are characterized by their variable histological appearance and often present as painless, slow-growing masses in the parotid gland.

These tumors are significant not only for their prevalence but also for their tendency to recur if not completely excised. Complete surgical removal is critical to avoid recurrence because even benign tumors can have unique growth patterns that lead to complications if barely removed.

Other tumors mentioned, while they do occur in the parotid gland, are less common. Warthin tumor, for instance, is also benign but has a lower incidence compared to pleomorphic adenoma. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma, although it is the most common malignant tumor of the salivary glands, does not match the frequency of pleomorphic adenoma. Acinic cell carcinoma is even rarer in terms of overall cases in the parotid gland. Thus, when considering the statistics and prevalence in the parotid gland specifically, pleomorphic adenoma stands out as the most commonly occurring tumor.