From the Research
For salivary gland infections, cephalosporins are the most effective antibiotic treatment, as they achieve the highest concentrations in saliva and cover the spectrum of all bacteria implicated in sialadenitis, as reported in the study by 1. The choice of antibiotic should be guided by the identification of the etiologic agent, but in the absence of this information, cephalosporins are a good option. Some key points to consider when treating salivary gland infections include:
- The parotid gland is the most commonly affected salivary gland, and the most common pathogens associated with acute bacterial infection are Staphylococcus aureus and anaerobic bacteria, as noted in the study by 2.
- Other bacteria that may be involved in salivary gland infections include Streptococcus spp., gram-negative bacilli, and Fusobacterium spp., as reported in the study by 3.
- In addition to antibiotic treatment, patients should stay well-hydrated, use warm compresses on the affected area, take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed, and maintain good oral hygiene.
- If symptoms worsen despite 48 hours of antibiotic therapy, fever persists, or swelling increases significantly, immediate medical reevaluation is necessary as surgical drainage may be required, as noted in the study by 4.
- It's also important to consider the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the antibiotic, as well as the severity and type of infection, when selecting an antibiotic, as discussed in the study by 5.