COVID-19-associated Parotid Gland Abscess

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Virology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes a pandemic with diverse clinical manifestations.
• While neurological and systemic effects are common, oral manifestations, particularly of salivary glands, are less frequently reported.
• This report focuses on a rare complication: COVID-19-associated parotid gland disease.

Observation:

• A 47-year-old male, SARS-CoV-2 positive and requiring ventilation, presented with worsening respiratory distress.
• Unilateral cheek swelling was noted, initially suspected as parotid gland infection.
• Further examination ruled out mechanical causes, and the patient subsequently developed a parotid abscess requiring extraoral drainage.

Findings:

• The case highlights a COVID-19 patient experiencing an aggravated parotid gland disease.
• A parotid abscess developed as a complication, necessitating surgical intervention.
• The oral cavity's role as a potential SARS-CoV-2 reservoir is supported.

Implications:

• Increased awareness of SARS-CoV-2 association with major salivary gland inflammation is crucial.
• Recognizing this link can guide timely and appropriate therapeutic decisions for COVID-19 patients.
• This case underscores the multifaceted nature of SARS-CoV-2 pathology beyond respiratory symptoms.