Parotiit

Parotiit, also known as parotitis, is the inflammation of the parotid glands, the major salivary glands located near the jaw. The term parotiit is used in some medical contexts or languages for this condition. It commonly presents with swelling in front of the ear, pain on chewing, and sometimes fever or malaise. Bilateral involvement may occur.

Causes include viral infections, most notably mumps, and other viruses that cause viral parotitis. Bacterial parotitis arises from duct obstruction or bacterial seeding and may show purulent drainage from the duct. Less common causes include autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren’s syndrome, dehydration, or obstruction from salivary stones or tumors.

Diagnosis is clinical, supported by history and examination. Imaging such as ultrasound or CT can assess gland size, stones, or abscess. Laboratory tests may show elevated amylase; serology or PCR can detect mumps virus. The differential includes salivary gland tumors, dental infections, and other causes of facial swelling.

Treatment is supportive for viral parotitis: hydration, analgesics, antipyretics, and warm compresses; sialogogues may aid drainage. Bacterial parotitis requires antibiotics active against oral flora, good oral hygiene, gland massage, and sometimes drainage. Vaccination with the MMR vaccine reduces the risk of mumps-related parotiit.

Prognosis is generally good, with most people recovering within one to two weeks. Recurrent or chronic parotitis is less common and may require specialist evaluation.