Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: BackgroundParotitis, inflammation of the parotid glands, is a clinically significant presentation with a wide range of aetiologies that can result in systemically unwell patients. ObjectiveThe aim of this article is to: (1) outline the assessment of parotitis and distinguish features relevant to determining the aetiology; (2) discuss the role of imaging in parotitis and other serological tests;(3) provide treatment principles and management approaches in treating parotitis in the general practice setting; and (4) identify key features that necessitate referral to an ear, nose and throat service or escalation in treatment. DiscussionWhen encountering parotitis in the primary care setting, a comprehensive history and examination is necessary to evaluate the patient, direct further ancillary investigations and to plan treatment.Differentiating between the well and unwell patient with parotitis is essential in determining whether investigation and treatment can be performed in the primary care setting versus the hospital setting.THE PAROTID GLANDS represent the largest of the major salivary glands and are located in the posterior cheeks -anteroinferior to the ear, inferior to zygoma and overlying the angle of the mandible.They produce serous secretions that drain via Stenson's duct into the oral cavity.Saliva, composed of 99% water and 1% protein and salts, is important in the digestion of food (amylase), the facilitation of taste and maintaining healthy dentition (via pH buffering, antimicrobial activity and dental remineralisation). 1 Salivary flow also maintains the health of the major salivary glands, preventing the formation of sialoliths (salivary duct stones) and retrograde duct bacterial ascension.Parotitis, inflammation and swelling of the parotid gland can occur secondary to a range of aetiologies from infections to systemic conditions (Table 1).
Authors: Anthony Pham, Rafia Alam, Neil Foden
Institution: Sunshine Coast University Hospital
Language: English
Subfield: Physiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4414035509