Parotid abscess at a single institute in Korea

OBJECTIVE: To investigate clinical features, treatment modality, and outcomes of patients with parotid abscess. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted at Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital January, 2006 to July, 2017. RESULTS: Among 13 patients, 4 patients had immunocompromised disease, and 3 patients had been diagnosed with pre-existing parotid tumor. Patients were treated with empirical intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics. Among 13 patients, 7 patients (53.8%) had surgical incision, and drainage was conducted. There was no recurrence or death associated with parotid abscess; however, 1 patient with parotid abscess developed facial nerve palsy that persists, despite adequate treatment. CONCLUSION: After adequate treatment, including antibiotics and surgical drainage, the prognosis of parotid gland is good. In the case of parotid abscess of immunocompromised patients, we suggest rapid surgical procedure for speedy recovery and minimizing adverse effects.