Imaging modalities of submandibular sialadenitis secondary to submandibular sialolithiasis: A case report

Sialoliths are calcified organic matter that is formed within the secretory system of the major salivary glands which commonly affects the submandibular gland or its duct and frequently causes acute and chronic infections. In recent years, advanced imaging techniques have improved the sensitivity of imaging diagnosis of diseases involving the major salivary glands. Various imaging methods like plain radiography, sialography, Ultrasound (US), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and nuclear scintigraphy/Positron Emission Tomography (PET) play a important role in diagnosis and planning the management, operative or otherwise. This article reviews a case report of a patient presenting with Sialolithiasis of right Wharton's duct with secondary acute bacterial sialadenitis in right submandibular salivary gland and methods used for imaging.