Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2026

Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Salivary Glands for Sjogren's Syndrome: Diagnostic and Monitoring Insights
Published on: October 13, 2023
Parotid gland enlargement in eating disorders: an insensitive sign?
C Price1, M A Schmidt, E J Adam
1St. George's University of London, London, London, UK.
Objective:
To study, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the parotid glands of patients who self-induce vomiting and in particular to observe the effects of cessation of this behaviour. The morphological features and composition of enlarged parotid glands in this group, compared with normal controls, were also examined.
Method:
MRI scans of the parotid glands were performed on 5 controls and 5 subjects with a purging form of eating disorder, at cessation of vomiting and 6 to 9 weeks later.
Results:
Parotid volumes are accurately measured using MRI. Enlarged parotids are not a consistent feature of subjects with eating disorders who self-induce vomiting.
Conclusion:
Absence of salivary gland enlargement does not exclude significant vomiting behaviour and clinicians should remain alert to the possibility of undisclosed vomiting.
Related Concept Videos
Bulimia Nervosa
Goiter
Anorexia Nervosa
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
Cirrhosis I: Introduction
Assessment of the Mouth
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
Salivary Glands and Saliva
