Differential Diagnosis for Parotid Gland Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Parotitis: This is the most common cause of parotid gland pain, often due to viral or bacterial infections. The pain can be acute or chronic and is usually accompanied by swelling of the parotid gland.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Sialolithiasis (Salivary Stone): Stones in the salivary glands can cause pain, especially if they obstruct the flow of saliva. The pain can be intermittent and worsen with meals.
- Stenson's duct obstruction: Obstruction of the duct that carries saliva from the parotid gland to the mouth can cause pain and swelling.
- Parotid gland abscess: A collection of pus in the parotid gland, usually as a result of a bacterial infection, can cause severe pain and swelling.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Parotid gland tumor: Although less common, tumors of the parotid gland can cause pain and should not be missed due to their potential for malignancy.
- Sjögren's syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and pain in the salivary glands, including the parotid gland.
- Rare diagnoses
- Heerfordt's syndrome (Uveoparotid fever): A rare form of sarcoidosis that affects the parotid gland and can cause pain, swelling, and fever.
- Kimura disease: A rare, chronic inflammatory disorder that can cause pain and swelling in the parotid gland, often accompanied by lymphadenopathy and eosinophilia.
- Parotid gland cysts: Benign cysts that can develop in the parotid gland and cause pain, especially if they become infected or rupture.