Parótidas

Parótidas refers to the parotid glands, which are the largest of the salivary glands in humans. They are a pair of exocrine glands located on either side of the face, in front of and below the ears. Their primary function is to produce saliva, which plays a crucial role in digestion, lubrication of food for swallowing, and oral hygiene. The parotid glands secrete a watery, serous fluid rich in enzymes like amylase, which begins the process of carbohydrate breakdown.

These glands are innervated by the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII), which also traverses through them. This close anatomical relationship means that surgical procedures or injuries involving the parotid glands can sometimes affect facial nerve function, leading to temporary or permanent facial paralysis. The parotid ducts, also known as Stensen's ducts, carry the saliva from the glands to the oral cavity, opening into the mouth near the upper molars.

Common conditions affecting the parotid glands include infections, such as mumps, a viral illness characterized by swelling of these glands. Other conditions can include benign or malignant tumors, salivary stones (sialolithiasis) that obstruct the ducts, and inflammatory conditions like Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that can affect salivary gland function. Evaluation of the parotid glands may involve physical examination, imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scans, and sometimes a biopsy.