American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

How is a Warthin's tumor typically managed?

1. Radiation therapy alone

2. Watchful waiting

3. Superficial parotidectomy

4. Observation without intervention

The correct answer is: Superficial parotidectomy

Warthin's tumor, also known as papillary cystadenoma lymphomatosum, is a benign tumor predominantly found in the parotid gland. The management of this tumor generally involves surgical intervention because of its potential for growth and the possibility of complications arising if left untreated. Surgical removal, typically via superficial parotidectomy, is considered the standard approach. This procedure involves excising the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue, thereby minimizing the risk of recurrence and addressing any associated symptoms, such as swelling or discomfort. While watchful waiting or observation might be considered in certain cases, such as when the tumor is small, asymptomatic, and the patient is not a surgical candidate due to other health issues, these options do not provide the definitive treatment that surgical removal offers. Radiation therapy, while effective for other types of tumors, is not a primary management strategy for Warthin's tumor. In summary, the correct management of Warthin's tumor is surgical, specifically through superficial parotidectomy, to ensure complete removal and mitigate the risks of complications from the tumor.