Parotid abscess: an unusual cause of facial nerve palsy

Abstract

Facial nerve palsy with a parotid mass is usually associated with malignant neoplasm of parotid gland. Its occurrence as a complication of parotid abscess is extremely rare. A literature review revealed only 16 cases of facial nerve palsy associated with suppurative parotitis or parotid abscess were reported. We present a case of deep parotid abscess which is complicated by facial nerve dysfunction. Underlying neoplasia was excluded.