Parotid tumor Parotitis Parotid stone A stone can form in a salivary gland, such as a parotid gland, causing a visible swelling on the outside of the mouth or the sensation of a lump inside the mouth.
There may also be pain while eating. It is often possible to remove a parotid (salivary gland) stone by surgery, although in some cases the entire gland may need to be removed.
The salivary glands can also become infected and inflamed.
For example, the parotid glands can become inflamed (parotitis) due to infection with the mumps virus. The inflammation subsides when the underlying infection clears up.
Occasionally, a bacterial infection may lead to an abscess, which may need to be treated with antibiotics or drained. Tumors of the salivary glands (such as parotid tumors) are rare. They cause a lump that may be felt protruding inside the mouth or on the face.
Cancerous tumors usually grow quickly, feel hard, and are sometimes painful.
Noncancerous tumors are usually painless and rubbery in consistency.
Treatment is with surgery to remove the tumor or, sometimes, all of the affected salivary gland.
After surgery, radiation therapy may also be given for cancerous tumors.