Abstract
An abscess of the deep parotid lobe is an uncommon complication of acute parotitis. Characterized by warm erythematous facial skin and ipsilateral cheek swelling, parotid abscesses have often been associated with decreased saliva production and immunodeficiency. We offer a case of a large deep parotid lobe abscess presenting similarly to a peritonsillar mass, causing significant odynophagia and difficulty swallowing. Computed tomography scan revealed an infected deep parotid lobe sialocele which was surgically drained transorally and treated expectantly with antibiotics.
Highlights
A variety of bacteria and viruses may cause acute infection of the parotid gland. e typical presentation of acute parotitis consists of sudden-onset erythematous, warm skin, and tissue swelling over one cheek
Our patient’s presentation was unique in that his abscess extended deeply along the stylomandibular tunnel into the prestyloid parapharyngeal space, whereas most parotid abscesses extend medially to laterally, requiring percutaneous surgical management. He lacked typical risk factors associated with parotitis and deep parotid abscess formation
One retrospective study found parotid abscesses in 1/5 patients with acute parotid disease [2]. e typical presentation of a parotid abscess is swelling in the parotid region with a sudden increase in swelling before seeking care
Summary
An abscess of the deep parotid lobe is an uncommon complication of acute parotitis. Characterized by warm erythematous facial skin and ipsilateral cheek swelling, parotid abscesses have often been associated with decreased saliva production and immunodeficiency. We offer a case of a large deep parotid lobe abscess presenting to a peritonsillar mass, causing significant odynophagia and difficulty swallowing. Computed tomography scan revealed an infected deep parotid lobe sialocele which was surgically drained transorally and treated expectantly with antibiotics
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