Question:easy
Sialolithiasis is most commonly seen in which gland?
Sialolithiasis is most commonly seen in which gland?
Show Hint
Think of the gland with thick mucinous saliva and a long uphill duct.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
- Parotid
- Sublingual
- Submandibular
- Minor salivary gland
Show Solution
The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: The question asks which salivary gland most often develops calculi.
Step 2: Among the major and minor salivary glands, the submandibular gland accounts for the overwhelming majority of cases, roughly four out of five.
Step 3: Several anatomical and physiological factors are responsible. Wharton's duct is long and runs in an uphill direction toward the floor of the mouth, its saliva is thick and mucous, and the calcium content is high. Together these promote pooling of secretions and precipitation of calcium salts.
Step 4: By contrast the parotid produces thin serous saliva, the sublingual gland and minor glands secrete small volumes, so each of these is an uncommon source of stones.
\[\boxed{\text{Submandibular gland}}\]
Step 2: Among the major and minor salivary glands, the submandibular gland accounts for the overwhelming majority of cases, roughly four out of five.
Step 3: Several anatomical and physiological factors are responsible. Wharton's duct is long and runs in an uphill direction toward the floor of the mouth, its saliva is thick and mucous, and the calcium content is high. Together these promote pooling of secretions and precipitation of calcium salts.
Step 4: By contrast the parotid produces thin serous saliva, the sublingual gland and minor glands secrete small volumes, so each of these is an uncommon source of stones.
\[\boxed{\text{Submandibular gland}}\]
Was this answer helpful?
0
