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MRI of chronic recurrent parotitis in childhood
T A Huisman1, D Holzmann, D Nadal
1Institute of Diagnostic Radiology, University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland. thierry@nmr.mgh.harvard.edu
Purpose:
Chronic recurrent parotitis (CRP) is a rare inflammatory disease characterized by multiple episodes of unilateral or bilateral parotid inflammation over a period of years. The objective of this study was to evaluate the parotid glands using MRI during acute inflammation as well as during symptom-free intervals.
Method:
Twelve children with a history of CRP were included. Four patients were examined during the acute phase and eight children during symptom-free intervals. MR findings were correlated with the clinical status.
Results:
Two different patterns were identified by MRI: acute inflammation versus chronic inflammation. Contrast enhancement of the parotid gland indicated acute inflammation. Cysts due to chronic inflammation were encountered in children who suffered multiple episodes of inflammation.
Conclusion:
Our findings suggest that CRP is characterized by recurrent, acute exacerbations of inflammation, resulting in a slowly progressive destruction of the parotid gland.
Insights
Chronic recurrent parotitis (CRP) involves repeated parotid gland inflammation. MRI reveals acute inflammation with contrast enhancement and chronic changes like cysts, indicating progressive gland destruction.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Pediatric Inflammatory Diseases
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Chronic recurrent parotitis (CRP) is a rare condition causing prolonged parotid gland inflammation.
- It is characterized by multiple episodes of inflammation over several years.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate parotid gland changes in children with CRP using MRI.
- To differentiate between acute inflammation and chronic changes during symptomatic and asymptomatic periods.
Main Methods:
- MRI examinations of 12 children with a history of CRP.
- Patients were assessed during acute inflammatory episodes (4 children) and symptom-free intervals (8 children).
- Correlation of MRI findings with clinical status.
Main Results:
- MRI identified two distinct patterns: acute inflammation and chronic inflammation.
- Acute inflammation was indicated by contrast enhancement of the parotid gland.
- Chronic inflammation manifested as cysts, particularly in children with a history of recurrent episodes.
Conclusions:
- CRP involves recurrent acute inflammatory exacerbations.
- These exacerbations lead to a slow, progressive destruction of the parotid gland.
- MRI is valuable in characterizing the inflammatory and destructive changes in CRP.