Acute bilateral parotid swelling upon laryngeal mask airway insertion: A case report

Abstract

We describe a case of bilateral parotid swelling developing shortly after laryngeal mask airway insertion. Spontaneous resolution occurred within 12 h postoperatively This unusual phenomenon has been termed ‘anaesthesia mumps’ or ‘acute sialadenosis’. Its exact relationship to anaesthesia remains unknown. It arises in a variety of patients and surgeries, making its pathogenesis difficult to determine. Its presentation can be confused with acute angioedema, but, unlike the latter, it is benign and not normally associated with airway compromise. Diagnosis is a process of exclusion, but careful airway assessment is an important component of this. Strategies to aid diagnosis and management are described.