Mumps or Parotiditis
"When this infection appears in young boys it is important to go to the specialist to avoid the testicular infection that can cause them problems of infertility in the future".
DR. REYES LÓPEZ DE MESA
SPECIALIST. PEDIATRICS DEPARTMENT
Mumps is a viral disease caused by the paramyxovirus, which initially penetrates and multiplies in the cells of the respiratory tract and is then transported by the blood to all tissues.
It has a special predilection for the salivary glands, especially the parotid gland. For this reason, a saliva culture can be performed for diagnosis. It can also be isolated from urine or any other tissue.
The disease can be transmitted by direct contact, by objects contaminated with saliva or urine. It can occur at any age, but is most common in young adults.
What are the symptoms of mumps?
The period in which symptoms usually appear is approximately 3-7 days, although this varies greatly from person to person.
Initially there is pain and hardening in the area corresponding to the parotid gland (between the earlobe and the jaw), usually due to inflammation of the area. Characteristically, the earlobe is often raised.
The affected area tends to be painful on palpation and even with the administration of acids (lemon, vinegar, etc.).
After infection, the enlargement of the gland reaches its maximum volume within 2-3 days. Usually one side becomes swollen first and within 2 days the other side becomes swollen. It is usually associated with fever below 40°C.
Most common symptoms:
- Pain and hardening of the parotid gland.
- Fever
- Tiredness and general malaise
Do you have any of these symptoms?
If you suspect that you have any of the above symptoms,
you should consult a medical specialist for a diagnosis.
What are the complications of paroiditis?
Complications, although very rare, can occur:
- Meningoencephalitis or inflammation of the meninges and brain.
- Orchitis, epididymitis or inflammation of the testicle.
- Ophoritis: inflammation of the ovary.
- Nephritis: inflammation of the kidney.
- Myocarditis: inflammation of the heart muscle.
- Arthritis: inflammation of the joints.
Special care should be taken in adolescent boyswith this infection because of the risk of developing orchitis and epididymitis. This complication usually follows the symptoms of mumps over a period of 8 days, with an abrupt onset of fever, nausea, abdominal and testicular pain.
It lasts approximately 4 days and may be associated with decreased fertility. However, in women it does not cause a decrease in female fertility.
Who can suffer from it?
The best treatment is prevention through vaccination in childhood. The first dose is given at 12 months and the booster at 3 years of age.
In general, this vaccine does not usually cause fever or other complications. The vaccine induces defence against the virus in about 96% of people in whom there has been no previous contact with the virus.
How is mumps diagnosed?
The diagnosis of mumps is established by examination of the patient, as the symptoms and signs are characteristic.
How are mumps treated?
In most cases, this disease is self-limiting and its treatment will only consist of improving the symptoms as they occur, basically by means of antipyretics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Bed rest should be carried out according to the patient's needs. There is no statistical data showing a decrease in the rate of complications with this measure and, on the contrary, it may be uncomfortable for the patient. For this reason, it is best to rest when desired.
Diet is another very important factor, and should be adjusted to your ability to eat and your appetite. There is no contraindication to limiting food.
Where do we treat it?
IN NAVARRA AND MADRID
The Department of Pediatrics
of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra
All our specialists work exclusively and, in addition, since we have all the technology in the same center, we offer the performance of tests and diagnosis in less than 72 hours.
We have a team of highly qualified professionals to attend the different specialized units: Oncopediatrics, Neuropediatrics, Endocrinopediatrics, Neonatology, etc.
Organized in specialized units
- Neonatology Area.
- Pediatric Endocrinology.
- Pediatric Cardiology.
- Pediatric Neuropediatrics.
- Digestive and pediatric nutrition.
- General and preventive pediatrics.
- Pediatric Pneumology.
Why at the Clinica?
- Comprehensive care of the child.
- Professionals who are experts in the different areas for a better diagnosis and treatment.
- Equipped with the latest technology for newborn care.
Our team of professionals
