Signs and Symptoms - Warthin's tumor primarily affects individuals aged 60-70 years. - There is a slight male predilection according to recent studies. - The tumor is slow-growing and painless. - It usually appears in the tail of the parotid gland near the angle of the mandible. - In 5-14% of cases, Warthin's tumor is bilateral, but the two masses usually occur at different times.

Locations - The parotid gland is the most likely affected gland. - Warthin's tumor is virtually restricted to the parotid gland. - It is the second most common benign parotid tumor after pleomorphic adenoma. - The prevalence of Warthin's tumor is steadily increasing.

Cause - The cause of Warthin's tumor is unknown. - There is a strong association with cigarette smoking. - Smokers are at 8 times greater risk of developing Warthin's tumor than the general population.

Diagnosis - The appearance of Warthin's tumor under the microscope is unique. - It is characterised by cystic spaces surrounded by two uniform rows of oncocytes. - The cystic spaces have papillary infoldings of epithelium. - The epithelium has lymphoid stroma with germinal center formation. - The differential diagnosis includes sebaceous lymphadenoma and oncocytoma.

Treatment - Most Warthin's tumors are treated with surgical removal called parotidectomy. - Unlike pleomorphic adenoma, Warthin's tumor is non-recurrent.