Pneumoparotitis
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The size of the swelling is variable, but it is soft[4] and can occur on one side or both sides.[1] It is typically non tender,[4] although sometimes there may be pain.[1] It usually resolves over minutes to hours, however occasionally this may take days.[1] The condition can be transient or recurrent.[5]
Causes
The condition is caused by raised air pressure in the mouth. [1]
Diagnosis and management
Pneumoparotitis is often misdiagnosed and incorrectly managed.[5] The diagnosis is based mainly on the history.[1] Crepitus may be elicited on palpation of the parotid swelling,[1] and massaging the gland may give rise to frothy saliva or air bubbles from the parotid papilla.[1] Further investigations are not typically required, however sialography, ultrasound and computed tomography may all show air in the parotid gland and duct.[1]
Management is simply by avoidance of the activity causing raised intraoral pressure which is triggering this rare condition.[1]