Description
Parotitis is an inflammation of the parotid glands. These are two large salivary glands. One of the glands is in front of each ear. Either one or both parotid glands can be inflamed. Possible causes include a bacterial infection, a viral infection, a stone in the parotid gland, a tumor, an autoimmune disease or other medical conditions.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the cause of the parotitis. Symptoms can include facial swelling, pain, bad taste, and dry mouth.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The dentist may press around the gland to remove fluid. This will be tested to look for the cause of the infection. A blood test may be done to determine if a medical condition is causing parotitis. An X-ray or other imaging test may be done to see if a salivary stone is present.
Other Specific Tests: Bacterial culture, blood test, X-ray, CT, MRI
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Dentistry, Dentistry - Pediatric
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The dentist may press around the gland to remove fluid. This will be tested to look for the cause of the infection. A blood test may be done to determine if a medical condition is causing parotitis. An X-ray or other imaging test may be done to see if a salivary stone is present.
Other Specific Tests: Bacterial culture, blood test, X-ray, CT, MRI
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Dentistry, Dentistry - Pediatric
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause of parotitis. For a bacterial infection, antibiotics will be prescribed. Applying hot compresses, drinking more liquids or massaging the gland may help. Surgery may be required to remove a large stone. Medication may also be needed. Most cases of parotitis go away and don't return. However, parotitis that is linked to another medical condition may not go away completely, or may keep coming back.