Sialadenitis is an inflammatory condition affecting one or more of the salivary glands, which are responsible for producing saliva. This inflammation can be acute or chronic and may result from infection, obstruction, autoimmune disorders, or other underlying causes.

Here are some key points about sialadenitis:

1. Causes: Sialadenitis often occurs due to bacterial infection, most commonly by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus species. The infection may result from obstruction of the salivary gland ducts, which can occur due to factors such as salivary gland stones (sialolithiasis), dehydration, poor oral hygiene, or certain medical conditions (such as Sjögren’s syndrome). Other causes of sialadenitis include viral infections (such as mumps), autoimmune disorders (such as Sjögren’s syndrome or sarcoidosis), radiation therapy to the head and neck, or systemic conditions affecting the salivary glands.
2. Symptoms: The symptoms of sialadenitis may include pain and swelling in the affected salivary gland, often worsened during meals when saliva production increases. Other common symptoms may include redness or warmth over the affected gland, fever, chills, difficulty opening the mouth, dry mouth, or foul-tasting saliva. In severe cases, abscess formation or pus drainage from the duct opening may occur.
3. Diagnosis: Diagnosis of sialadenitis involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and evaluation of symptoms. Diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, may be used to visualize the salivary glands and assess for signs of inflammation, obstruction, or abscess formation. In cases of suspected bacterial infection, a culture of the saliva or pus may be obtained to identify the causative organism and guide antibiotic therapy.
4. Treatment: Treatment of sialadenitis depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Acute bacterial sialadenitis is typically treated with antibiotics to eliminate the infection, along with measures to promote saliva flow (such as hydration, warm compresses, and sour candies or lemon juice). In cases of obstruction, manual expression of saliva or surgical removal of salivary gland stones may be necessary. Chronic sialadenitis may require long-term management with antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or other interventions to control symptoms and prevent recurrence.
5. Complications: If left untreated, sialadenitis can lead to complications such as abscess formation, cellulitis (spread of infection to surrounding tissues), or recurrent infections. In severe cases, chronic inflammation of the salivary glands may cause irreversible damage, leading to decreased saliva production and increased risk of dental decay, oral infections, or difficulty swallowing.

In summary, sialadenitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the salivary glands, typically caused by infection, obstruction, or autoimmune disorders. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications, and preserve the function of the salivary glands.