Parotitis: An approach for general practitioners.

Abstract

Background: Parotitis, inflammation of the parotid glands, is a clinically significant presentation with a wide range of aetiologies that can result in systemically unwell patients.

Objective: The 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.

Discussion: When 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.