korvasylkirauhanen
Korvasylkirauhanen, also known as the parotid gland, is the largest of the salivary glands in humans. It is one of a pair of major salivary glands located on either side of the face, anterior and inferior to the ears. These glands are responsible for producing saliva, which aids in digestion and lubrication of the mouth. The parotid glands are exocrine glands, meaning they secrete their product through a duct. The parotid duct, also called Stensen's duct, exits the gland and empties into the mouth, usually opposite the upper second molar tooth.
The parotid glands receive innervation from the glossopharyngeal nerve (cranial nerve IX) for their secretory function.
Common conditions affecting the parotid glands include infections, such as mumps, and tumors, which can be benign