Pediatric Sialendoscopy

Abstract

Purpose of Review: To describe the pathophysiology, evaluation, and management of sialadenitis as well as the indications for and outcomes of sialendoscopy in the pediatric population. Recent Findings: Pediatric sialadenitis makes up a small proportion of all salivary gland disease. Acute viral sialadenitis and juvenile recurrent parotitis are the most common forms of the condition. Juvenile recurrent parotitis is thought to be multifactorial in etiology with infectious, behavioral, autoimmune, and structural contributions. Review of the current literature supports a potential benefit from sialendoscopy for children with recurrent acute or chronic sialadenitis. Sialendoscopy can provide both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits with very low associated risks. The most common sialendoscopy findings include intraductal sludge or debris, sialoliths, and ductal strictures. Summary: In the select pediatric population, sialendoscopy is a safe and effective procedure with associated decreased rates of recurrent acute sialadenitis including juvenile recurrent parotitis.