From the Research
The treatment for parotitis, specifically acute bacterial parotitis, involves maintenance of hydration, administration of parenteral antimicrobial therapy, and surgical drainage if an abscess has formed, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1. The choice of antimicrobial depends on the etiologic agent, with the most frequently detected pathogens being Streptococci and Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus 1. Key considerations in the treatment of parotitis include:
- Maintenance of good oral hygiene to reduce the risk of infection
- Adequate hydration to help prevent dehydration and promote healing
- Administration of parenteral antibiotics, such as aminopenicillin ± beta-lactamase inhibitor, as empiric therapy 1
- Surgical incision and drainage for abscesses, which can be performed under local anesthesia with minimal risk of complications 1
- Obtaining a microbiological specimen to guide antibiotic therapy and a histopathological specimen to rule out a tumorous etiology 1 It is essential to note that the treatment approach may vary depending on the underlying cause of parotitis, and a thorough evaluation, including dental examination, is necessary to determine the best course of treatment. In cases where parotitis is caused by a viral infection, such as mumps, treatment focuses on symptom management, including pain relief and hydration, as the infection typically resolves on its own within 7-10 days. However, for acute bacterial parotitis, prompt antibiotic therapy and surgical intervention, if necessary, are crucial to prevent complications and promote recovery, as highlighted in the most recent study 1.