Scientists discover a new organ after 300 years; say could change cancer treatments

Researchers have identified a previously unknown salivary gland hidden deep in the throat (Image: pw_meded/ instagram)

For over three centuries, medical textbooks have consistently listed only three major pairs of salivary glands: the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands. Along with these, several microscopic salivary glands are scattered throughout the mouth and throat. But now, researchers in the Netherlands have uncovered a previously unknown pair of salivary glands, potentially rewriting anatomy as we know it.

The Netherlands Cancer Institute made this ground-breaking discovery that has the potential to change how we treat cancer. The researchers observed something unusual while conducting PSMA PET-CT scans for an advanced imaging technique used for detecting prostate cancer. The scan which uses a radioactive tracer to illuminate cells affected with prostate cancer, also lit up a region far back within the nasal cavity. This particular area, which is above the soft palate where the nasal cavity connects to the pharynx, was never thought to contain any major salivary glands.

Having detected this, scientists scanned diagnostic imaging of around a hundred individuals and performed cadaveric dissections to verify their conclusions. It resulted in the discovery of detection of a new group of salivary glands, which have now been designated as the tubarial salivary glands.

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Where Are They Located and Their Function

The tubarial salivary glands are positioned adjacent to a structure known as the torus tubarius, within the nasopharynx or the most superior region of the pharynx behind the nose. They are, on average, about 3.9 centimetres in length and are believed to assist in the moistening and lubrication of the upper pharynx. This function is essential to facilitate swallowing and also to care for the throat.

Why This Discovery Matters for Cancer Patients

This new anatomical insight is particularly important for patients undergoing radiation therapy for head and neck cancers. One major issue in head and neck radiotherapy is damage to salivary glands. When radiation hits these glands, it can lead to dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, speaking trouble, and other quality‑of‑life problems. Since the tubarial glands were unknown until now, they were never considered during treatment planning. As a result, they may have been unintentionally harmed during radiotherapy. Now, with this discovery, oncologists can adjust treatment plans to protect these glands and minimise side effects.What’s Next

Scientists emphasize that more research is needed in this and has called upon medical community for collaboration. They still need to understand how to best protect these glands during treatment, how common they are across different populations, and what other roles they may play in human health. There’s also the possibility that this discovery may lead to further hidden anatomical structures yet to be identified.

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FAQ

Q: What is the significance of the tubarial salivary glands discovery?
A: The discovery has the potential to change how we treat cancer, particularly head and neck cancers, by allowing oncologists to adjust treatment plans to protect these previously unknown glands and minimize side effects like dry mouth and difficulty swallowing.

Q: How were the tubarial salivary glands discovered?
A: Researchers detected the glands while conducting PSMA PET-CT scans, which illuminated a region in the nasal cavity previously not thought to contain major salivary glands. Subsequent diagnostic imaging and cadaveric dissections confirmed the presence of these glands.

Q: Where are the tubarial salivary glands located?
A: They are positioned adjacent to the torus tubarius within the nasopharynx, the most superior region of the pharynx behind the nose.

Q: What is the function of the tubarial salivary glands?
A: They are believed to assist in the moistening and lubrication of the upper pharynx, facilitating swallowing and caring for the throat.

Q: How might this discovery impact radiation therapy for cancer patients?
A: With this new anatomical insight, treatment plans can be adjusted to avoid damaging the tubarial salivary glands, thereby potentially reducing side effects like dry mouth and difficulty swallowing.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.