A salivary mucocele is a collection of saliva that leaks into surrounding tissues after damage or rupture of a salivary gland or duct.

 

In dogs, the mandibular and sublingual salivary glands are by far the most common source of salivary mucoceles.

Instead of saliva flowing normally into the mouth, it leaks under the skin or tissues, forming a soft fluid-filled swelling.

 

The good news:

- Salivary mucoceles are usually benign

- They are very treatable

- Surgery is the treatment of choice (sialadenectomy)

 

Most dogs recover completely after proper gland removal