Salivary Gland Scan

A salivary gland scan (salivary scintigraphy) is a nuclear medicine test that evaluates salivary gland function. A small amount of radioactive tracer (usually technetium) is injected and a gamma camera images tracer uptake and secretion over time. It helps diagnose conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, obstruction or inflammation. The test is noninvasive, may use a sialogogue (lemon juice) to stimulate saliva, and carries low radiation risk.

Doctors check salivary glands by taking a history and examining the face and mouth, palpating parotid, submandibular and sublingual areas for swelling, tenderness or masses, and expressing ducts to assess saliva flow. They may inspect duct openings, order imaging (ultrasound, sialography, CT or MRI) to find stones or tumors, and perform lab tests, cultures or biopsy if infection or malignancy is suspected.

Ultrasound is the best initial scan for salivary glands—noninvasive, no radiation, and excellent for detecting stones, cysts and superficial masses. MRI provides superior soft-tissue detail and tumor staging, while CT better demonstrates calcified stones and bone involvement. Conventional or MR sialography evaluates ductal anatomy, and scintigraphy assesses gland function. Choice depends on the clinical question.

Yes. A CT scan can visualize the major salivary glands (parotid, submandibular, sublingual) and nearby tissues, identifying stones, infection, abscess, inflammation, masses, and bony involvement. IV contrast improves soft‑tissue detail. Ultrasound and MRI are complementary—ultrasound for superficial glands and stones, MRI for soft‑tissue characterization—but CT is especially useful for calcifications and acute evaluation.

Salivary gland problems can cause swelling or a lump near the jaw, under the ear, or beneath the tongue; pain or tenderness (often worse with eating); dry mouth or reduced saliva; a bad taste or pus draining into the mouth; difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing; redness and fever with infection; and painless persistent swelling that may indicate a blockage or tumor. Seek medical review.

Cost varies by country and facility. In the US a salivary‑gland ultrasound typically ranges from $200–$1,000. In the UK it’s usually free on the NHS; privately expect about £100–£400. In India prices range roughly ₹700–₹4,000. Final cost depends on clinic type, imaging complexity, whether a radiologist’s report or procedure guidance is required, and local diagnostic tariffs.