20 Aug 2024Review
Low Radiation Doses in Oncocytic Lesions of the Parotid Gland: A Double-edged Sword. A Comprehensive Review
Antonio Pontoriero 1Paola Critelli 1Marco Zeppieri 2Anna Brogna 3Filippo Angileri 4Antonino Bottari 5Alberto Stagno 5Silvana Parisi 1Stefano Pergolizzi 1
Affiliations
Article Info
1 Radiation Oncology Unit, Department of Biomedical, Dental Science and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
2 Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
3 Medical Physics Unit - A.O.U. “G. Martino”, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
4 Radiology Unit, Department of Biomedical, Dental Science and Morphological and Functional Images, 98125 Messina, Italy
5 Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, Policlinico “G. Martino”, 98125 Messina, Italy
Published: 20 Aug 2024
Copyright © 2024 The Author(s).
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Abstract
Oncocytic lesions represent a group of benign and potentially precancerous tumors characterized by the accumulation of oncocytes, which are large, granular, and eosinophilic cells. Diagnosing oncocytic lesions in the parotid gland typically involves a combination of imaging techniques, such as ultrasound, Computed Tomography (CT) scans, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy with histopathological examination remains the primary diagnostic tool for these lesions. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management decisions. Treatment options for oncocytic lesions in the parotid gland include surgery, conservative management, and radiation therapy (RT). However, in the head and neck region, radiation doses can be a double-edged sword. While RT is a treatment modality, low radiation doses can promote the development of oncocytic lesions in the parotid gland. The prognosis for patients with oncocytic lesions is generally favorable, especially when the lesions are benign and appropriately managed. Current research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying oncocytic lesions in response to low-dose radiation exposure. The development of these lesions following low radiation doses represents a significant clinical concern. This manuscript provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge regarding oncocytic lesions in the parotid gland, including risk factors, diagnosis, treatment options, and ongoing research, offering valuable insights for clinicians and researchers.
Keywords
- parotid gland
- oncocytic cells
- low radiation dose
- oncocytoma
- ionizing radiation
- non-target effect
- mitochondria