MRI of chronic recurrent parotitis in childhood

Purpose: Chronic recurrent parotitis (CRP) is a rare inflammatory disease c haracterized by multiple episodes of unilateral or bilateral parotid inflam mation over a period of years. The objective of this study was to evaluate the parotid glands using MRI during acute inflammation as well as during sy mptom-free intervals. Method: Twelve children with a history of CRP were included. Four patients were examined during the acute phase and eight children during symptom-free intervals. MR findings were correlated with the clinical status. Results: Two different patterns were identified by MRI: acute inflammation versus chronic inflammation. Contrast enhancement of the parotid gland indi cated acute inflammation. Cysts due to chronic inflammation were encountere d in children who suffered multiple episodes of inflammation. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that CRP is characterized by recurrent, ac ute exacerbations of inflammation, resulting in a slowly progressive destru ction of the parotid gland.