Diagnosing bulimia nervosa with parotid gland swelling

The authors describe bulimia nervosa, or BN, and its effect on the parotid gland. The associated asymptomatic bilaterally enlarged parotid glands often present a diagnostic dilemma.

The authors present a case of a 22-year-old woman with BN who had bilateral parotid gland swelling, serum electrolyte alteration and no dental stigmata. Her principal concern was the associated cosmetic deformity.

Because patients with BN who have parotid gland swelling usually are secretive about their purging, the diagnosis may be confirmed by conducting a clinical examination and a serum electrolyte study. Prompt diagnosis can avoid serious medical complications.