Epidemiology of Salivary Gland Tumors Managed at University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Cross River State

Salivary gland tumors represent a heterogeneous group of neoplasms with diverse biological behavior and clinical presentations. While global data on their epidemiology are available, institution-specific studies from the South South geopolitical zone of Nigeria remain sparse. This retrospective descriptive study examines the frequency, histopathological distribution, anatomical site, and management of salivary gland tumors at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Cross River State, over a ten-year period from 2014 to 2024. Histopathological records and clinical files of 178 confirmed cases were reviewed. Data points include tumor type, gland of origin, patient age and sex, duration of swelling before presentation, treatment modality, and recurrence rate at follow-up. Findings indicate that pleomorphic adenoma was the most common benign tumor, primarily affecting the parotid gland in middle-aged females. Among malignant tumors, mucoepidermoid carcinoma was most prevalent. Late presentation was documented in over 60% of malignant cases, significantly reducing the scope for curative surgical resection. The study highlights the need for capacity building in histopathological diagnosis and surgical oncology within regional centers. It also underscores the importance of public sensitization campaigns to reduce diagnostic delays in salivary gland malignancies across the South South zone. Keywords: salivary gland tumors, pleomorphic adenoma, mucoepidermoid carcinoma, Calabar, epidemiology.