Pneumoparotitis: a case report

Abstract

Background: Pneumoparotid is a rare cause of parotid enlargement. Pneumatic enlargement of the gland is caused by retrograde insufflation via Stensen's duct. Most reported cases have been managed conservatively, thus running a short course.

Methods and results: We report on a case of a 48-year-old man with a chronic painful right facial swelling and symptoms of repeated infection. Clinical examination found a parotid swelling with surgical emphysema and a dilated Stensen's duct. Pneumoparotitis with cystic changes and dilated intraparotid ducts was confirmed by CT. The patient proceeded to undergo excision of the gland, with subsequent resolution of symptoms.

Conclusion: Repeated retrograde movement of air and contaminated saliva leads to chronic infection and sialectasis. Management is aimed at preventing these sequelae by identifying and addressing the insult early; however, repeated pneumoparotid leads to chronic pneumoparotitis, the management of which is excision of the gland.