Which gland is most commonly affected by sialolithiasis?

Sialolithiasis is the formation of stones in the salivary glands, which can lead to blockage and inflammation. The submandibular gland is the most commonly affected gland due to several factors.

First, the submandibular gland has a longer ductal system compared to the parotid gland. This anatomy can make the flow of saliva more sluggish, creating an environment where minerals can precipitate and form stones. Additionally, the saliva produced in the submandibular gland is typically thicker and more viscous because it contains a higher concentration of mucins, which can contribute to stone formation.

Furthermore, the submandibular gland is located at a lower position compared to the parotid gland, making it more prone to dehydration and saliva stagnation, especially when there are factors such as dehydration, reduced salivary flow, or systemic health issues present.

Understanding these anatomical and physiological factors helps explain why the submandibular gland is the most frequent site for sialolithiasis, emphasizing the importance of salivary flow and ductal architecture in the condition's etiology.