From the Guidelines
Parotitis is a rare complication of Influenza A infection [ 1 ].
Key Points
- Parotitis is more commonly associated with other conditions, but it can occur as a rare complication of Influenza A [ 1 ].
- The exact mechanism of parotitis in Influenza A is not well understood, but it may be related to viral infection or secondary bacterial infection [ 1 ].
- Toxic shock syndrome in conjunction with secondary S aureus infection is also a rare complication of Influenza A, and parotitis may be associated with this condition [ 1 ].
- In general, parotitis can be managed with conservative treatment, including pain relief and hydration, and antibiotics may be considered if bacterial superinfection is suspected.
- It is essential to monitor for signs of complications, such as abscess formation, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment.
From the Research
Relationship between Parotitis and Influenza A
- Parotitis can be caused by various factors, including viral infections such as paramyxovirus (mumps), Epstein-Barr virus, coxsackievirus, and influenza A and parainfluenza viruses 2.
- Influenza-associated parotitis has been reported, with cases primarily occurring with influenza A(H3N2) virus infection 3, 4.
- Studies have shown that influenza A(H3N2) virus infection is a common cause of parotitis, with cases presenting with painful and unilateral parotitis, often accompanied by systemic or respiratory symptoms 3, 4.
- The clinical signs of parotitis associated with influenza A(H3N2) virus infection are typically mild, with an average swelling development of 5 days and no complications 4.
- Influenza-associated parotitis can occur in the absence of respiratory symptoms, highlighting the importance of considering influenza in the differential diagnoses among patients with acute parotitis during the influenza season 3, 4.
Epidemiology and Clinical Characteristics
- During the 2014-2015 influenza season in the United States, 256 cases of influenza-associated parotitis were reported from 27 states, with cases primarily occurring in individuals under the age of 20 3.
- A study in Santa Fe, Argentina, found that 68.2% of parotitis cases were associated with influenza virus infection, with 93% of these cases caused by influenza A(H3N2) virus 4.
- Clinical characteristics of parotitis associated with influenza A(H3N2) virus infection include painful and unilateral parotitis, fever, headache, muscle ache, and/or fatigue 3, 4.
Diagnosis and Treatment
- Diagnosis of parotitis associated with influenza A(H3N2) virus infection can be made through real-time polymerase chain reaction and next-generation sequencing 3.
- Treatment of parotitis associated with influenza A(H3N2) virus infection typically involves antiviral therapy and supportive care, with surgical drainage may be indicated in severe cases 2, 5.