A Submandibular Sialolith of an Unusual Size Presenting With a Cervical Fistula Mimicking a Branchial Fistula : A Case Report

Introduction Sialolithiasis is the formation of a calcified mass (sialolith) in the salivary glands. It is said to affect 0.1 to 1% of the population with a male predilection and 30 to 60 years being the most common age. (1)Of all the salivary glands, sialoliths are most commonly found in the submandibular gland (80-95%) (2). This is owing to longer, tortuous Wharton's duct, anti-gravity flow of saliva in submandibular gland and a more viscous consistency of the submandibular secretion due to alkalinity, mucin proteins and greater amount of calcium and phosphates. (3)According to Lutsmann et al, 78.8 % of sialoliths are <10 mm, 13.6% are between 10-15 mm and 7.65 % are >15 mm. They more commonly found in the duct than in the parenchyma. (4)