Clinical Research Directory

Characterization of Diseases With Salivary Gland Involvement

Background: \- Salivary glands in and around the mouth and throat make saliva. Salivary gland disorders can affect a person s quality of life. Studying people who have a disease that affects their salivary gland(s) may teach researchers about the disorders and their genetics. Objectives: \- To study salivary gland diseases and disorders. To collect data and samples from people with salivary gland problems and their relatives. Eligibility: * People more than 4 years old who have or are suspected to have a disease involving salivary glands. * Their relatives more than 4 years old. * Healthy volunteers 18 years or older. Design: * Participants may be screened with: * Medical history * Physical exam * Blood and urine tests * General oral and dental history and exam * Saliva collection * Eye exam and test for dry eyes * Health questionnaires (adults) * Biopsy of some minor salivary glands. A small incision will be made on the inside of the lower lip and several tiny salivary glands will be removed. * Participants will have 2-3 visits. These may include: * Repeats of some screening tests * Ultrasounds of some glands. Researchers will put some gel on the face, then press on it with a smooth wand. * Adults may have other biopsies * A small catheter inserted into the opening of the parotid gland duct on the inside of the cheek. A saline solution (in a syringe) will fill the duct. * Swishing a saltwater solution in the mouth for 10 seconds and then spitting into a cup * Scrapings collected from teeth, tongue, and cheeks