Saliva

Salivary volume measurements are an integral part of any investigation of a salivary gland (SG) disorder. Abnormal SG conditions brought about by intrinsic and extrinsic factors usually impact upon salivary production. Mechanisms for the assessment of changes in salivary volume, a key element in diagnosing a SG problem, are available. However, the evaluation must be objectively based. Subjective complaints of decreased saliva (xerostomia) or increased saliva (sialorrhea) are unreliable and prove to be anecdotal in nature. Objective techniques for salivary volume collection and study have been established while standardized values have been accepted for the presence of hyposalivation or hypersalivation. The aim of this chapter is to review those conditions that impinge upon SG volume production. Medications, organophosphates and some medical conditions can lead to hypersalivation, while neurodegenerative diseases cause drooling, often misinterpreted as hypersalivation. Hyposalivation is the more common salivary entity that is encountered. Systemic diseases, many medications and radiation are causes of hyposalivation.