A 55-year-old woman presents with a 3-day history of left-sided facial swelling, pain, and difficulty chewing. She reports fever and dry mouth but no recent trauma. Upon examination, a tender, swollen parotid gland with erythema is observed, and pus is seen at Stensen’s duct. What could this be?
The right answer: Acute Suppurative Parotitis, a bacterial infection of the parotid gland, commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus. This condition frequently affects dehydrated or immunocompromised patients. Common symptoms include:
Diagnosis & Treatment:
Diagnosis is typically clinical but may require imaging like ultrasound or CT scans to rule out abscess formation. Treatment options include:
Preventing recurrence involves maintaining hydration, good oral hygiene, and managing underlying health conditions. If left untreated, complications such as abscess formation and systemic infection can occur.
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