Mumps Swelling Location
Yes, mumps swelling is characteristically seen just below and behind the ear, as the parotid glands—the primary salivary glands affected—are anatomically located in this region. 1
Anatomical Location and Clinical Presentation
The parotid glands are positioned in the preauricular area, extending from just below and behind the ear down toward the angle of the jaw. 2 When mumps causes parotitis (inflammation of these glands), the resulting swelling creates the classic appearance:
- Swelling obscures the angle of the jaw and creates a characteristic "chipmunk cheek" appearance 2
- The earlobe is often pushed outward and upward by the underlying parotid swelling 3
- Swelling can be unilateral or bilateral, occurring in 60-70% of mumps infections 2
- Tenderness accompanies the swelling, lasting ≥2 days without other apparent cause 1
Important Clinical Caveats
Not all mumps cases present with parotid swelling. This is a critical diagnostic pitfall:
- 15-20% of mumps infections are completely asymptomatic 2
- Up to 50% present with nonspecific respiratory symptoms without obvious parotitis 2
- Other salivary glands can be affected instead, including isolated submandibular gland involvement (below the jaw rather than behind the ear) 4
- One-third of clinically diagnosed mumps cases may not have serologic confirmation, highlighting the importance of laboratory testing 1
Diagnostic Approach
When evaluating suspected parotid swelling:
- Look for bilateral involvement developing over 1-5 days, though unilateral presentation occurs 3
- Assess for prodromal symptoms including fever, headache, malaise, and myalgia preceding the swelling 2
- Confirm with laboratory testing: mumps IgM antibody, viral isolation, or significant IgG rise between acute and convalescent titers 1
- Consider alternative diagnoses if swelling doesn't fit the classic pattern, as parotitis has multiple infectious and noninfectious causes 1
Complications Requiring Monitoring
Beyond the characteristic parotid swelling, watch for: