Acute Parotitis

Findings:

Multiple contrast enhanced neck CT images demonstrate asymmetric enlargement, increased density, and poor definition of the right parotid gland. There is induration of overlying soft tissues, asymmetric enlargement of the masseter and pterygoid muscles, and hazy infiltration of the parapharyngeal fat. No focal mass is visible.

Differential Diagnosis/Discussion:

The hazy induration of overlying soft tissues in the absence of a focal mass indicates the presence of an inflammatory process. Whenever an inflammatory process in the face is detected, a search for underlying source such as infected tooth should be performed. If no source is found and the process is centered on a salivary gland, sialoadenitis is most likely.

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