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Recurrent parotitis of childhood.
C M Leerdam1, H C O Martin, D Isaacs
1Department of Allergy, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia. carol_leerdam@yahoo.com
Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health
|January 10, 2006
Summary
Recurrent parotitis (RP) in children presents with swelling and pain, often misdiagnosed. Early diagnosis and ultrasound confirmation are key, as antibiotics are ineffective for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Immunology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Recurrent parotitis (RP) is a rare childhood condition with an unclear cause, likely immune-related.
- It presents with recurrent episodes of parotid gland swelling and pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of recurrent parotitis in children.
- To identify key diagnostic features and treatment approaches for childhood RP.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study of 53 children diagnosed with RP between 1983 and 2004.
- Data collection included clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- RP shows a biphasic age distribution (2-5 years and 10 years).
- Common symptoms include swelling (100%), pain (92.5%), and fever (41.5%), with delayed diagnosis common (>1 year in 70%).
- Ultrasound confirmed sialectasis in 81% of patients; antibiotics were used in over half without clear benefit. Associated conditions included hypogammaglobulinaemia and Sjogren's syndrome.
Conclusions:
- Recurrent parotitis is characterized by recurrent episodes and lack of pus, distinguishing it from other parotid swellings.
- Ultrasound is valuable for diagnosis, and antibiotics are not indicated.
- Screening for immune deficiencies and Sjogren's syndrome is recommended for affected children.