Scientists from the Netherlands have made a sensational discovery: previously unknown tubarial salivary glands have been found behind the human nose. They function to moisten and lubricate the nasopharynx and could change approaches to treating oncology patients undergoing radiation therapy.
Scientists at the Netherlands Cancer Institute accidentally found a previously unknown organ—tubarial salivary glands located behind the nose. The discovery, made during a study of prostate cancer patients, may change approaches to radiation therapy and help reduce its side effects.
The new organ functions to lubricate and moisten the area where the nasal cavity connects to the throat. Its existence explains common patient complaints after radiation—dry mouth and difficulty swallowing.
According to radiation oncologist Wouter Vogel, the glands remained unnoticed for decades because they are small and poorly visible with standard imaging. The scientists’ current task is to find ways to preserve these glands during treatment to alleviate the suffering of oncology patients.
