[Juvenile recurrent parotitis]

Juvenile recurring parotitis is a relatively rare condition. The clinical picture as illustrated by a characteristic case history is reviewed. The condition shows a tendency to remission around puberty. Sialographic examination is characterised by the configuration of the parotid gland said to resemble a bunch of grapes. Biochemical tests do not contribute to the diagnosis which is established by the clinical picture and the typical sialographic findings. No systemic disease can be demonstrated in the patients who are healthy in other respects. The cause of the condition appears to be congenital sialectic changes localised to the parotid gland with resultant secondary ascending bacterial infection. In treatment during the acute stages, attempts should be made to stimulate secretion of saliva with sour foodstuffs and chewing gum. Treatment with penicillin for one week is recommended. On account of the benign character of the condition and the good long-term prognosis, operative intervention should not prove necessary.