Definition:
Parotitis pertains to the inflammation of either one or both parotid glands, which are the largest of all salivary glands located on either side of the face. The parotid glands are chiefly responsible for producing saliva which they then release into the mouth.
Diagnosis:
A CT (computerized tomography) scan is the most ideal diagnostic tool to determine parotitis.
Treatment:
Recurrent parotitis may be treated with surgery to end the severe and frequent episodes. However, surgery can damage a portion of facial nerves, and the decision to have surgery must be weighed greatly based on a number of factors. Surgical options available for parotitis include: superficial parotidectomy; fibrosis; tympanic neurectomy; and ligation of the parotid duct.
Symptoms and Signs:
Parotitis symptoms range in severity, and may include: swollen parotid glands; swollen glands near jaw and cheek; face pain swelling of the parotid glands; fever; headaches; sore throat; swelling of the temples or jaw (temporomandibular area); esticle lump; and scrotal swelling.
Causes:
Parotitis may develop as a consequence of: bacterial infections (such as Staphylococcus aureus); viral infections (such as mumps); blockage of the main parotid duct; a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation (known as Sjögren's syndrome); as well as other underlying illnesses that may cause swelling without pain and/or infection. Other factors that may contribute to parotitis include: parotid gland enlargement; elevated amylase levels; facial pain; some drugs that can cause transient swelling; and a wide range of others. In a majority of parotitis cases, however, the specific risk factors are unknown.
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