Neonatal parotid gland enlargement: Is it suppurative parotitis? A case report

BACKGROUND: Acute suppurative parotitis (ASP) is a rare finding in the neonate. It is commonly caused by S. aureus but other bacterial isolates may be emerging. Effective treatment includes prompt diagnosis, parenteral antibiotics and supportive measures such as rehydration and bimanual gland massage. CASE REPORT: This case report describes an extremely premature female infant with a complicated post-natal course who presented with unilateral swelling of the parotid region. Diagnostic workup revealed purulent exudate from Stensen’s duct and ultrasound findings consistent with parotitis. Culture of the exudate showed growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus species. The patient responded well to a ten-day antibiotic course and supportive measures. CONCLUSIONS: ASP, though rare, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a neonatal parotid swelling since early and prompt diagnosis prevents morbidity and complications.