Intraglandular toxoplasmosis lymphadenitis of the parotid gland

Abstract

Toxoplasmosis is a protozoan infection manifested by systemic findings as well as generalized or localized lymphadenopathy. Although lympadenitis is the most common clinical form, involvement of the intraglandular nodes within the parotid gland found is a rare occurrence during the course of the disease. This unusual form may mimic a parotid mass, and can cause difficulties in differential diagnosis. In this article, a case of intraglandular parotid lymphadenitis which developed due to toxoplasmosis is presented, and the relevant literature is reviewed.