parotid gland
Summary
The parotid gland is the largest salivary gland, located anterior to the ear, producing serous saliva via Stensen's duct. It's clinically significant for mumps infection, Sjögren's syndrome, and pleomorphic adenomas.
Detail
The parotid gland is the largest of the three major salivary glands, weighing 15-30g and located in the parotid space anterior and inferior to the external ear. It produces purely serous saliva rich in amylase, antibodies, and electrolytes, which drains through Stensen's duct (parotid duct) into the oral cavity opposite the second maxillary molar. The gland is divided into superficial and deep lobes by the facial nerve (CN VII), making surgical procedures risky due to potential facial nerve injury. The parotid gland receives parasympathetic innervation from CN IX via the otic ganglion, stimulating salivation. Clinically, it's most commonly affected by mumps (paramyxovirus), causing painful bilateral or unilateral swelling. Other important conditions include Sjögren's syndrome (autoimmune destruction leading to xerostomia), pleomorphic adenoma (most common benign tumor), and Warthin's tumor. Parotid enlargement can also occur in alcoholism, diabetes, and malnutrition. The gland contains lymph nodes that can be involved in head and neck malignancies.
Sources
- Gray's Anatomy for Students
- Netter's Head and Neck Anatomy for Dentistry
- First Aid for the USMLE Step 1
- Robbins Basic Pathology
Reviewed by AnkiBoss editorial — medical student review. Information here is for study reference only and is not medical advice. Spotted an error? Let us know.