SARS-CoV-2 associated unilateral parotitis in children: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection usually affects the respi ratory system; however, a number of atypical manifestations of this disease have also been reported, especially in chil-dren. The present study reports a case of a 12-year-old presenting with right unilateral parotitis and sialadenitis and SARS-CoV-2 infection. The young patient, after a 3-day history of fever, was brought to our clinic (Polyclinic University Hospital ‘G. Rodolico’, Catania, Italy) for the sudden onset of unilateral parotitis accompanied by sial-adenitis and hyperaemia of the skin, which was tender to touch. The SARS-CoV-2 molecular swab was positive; the ultrasound of the affected region showed an increase in the volume of the parotid and sublingual gland and reactive lymph nodes compatible with parotitis and sialadenitis. This case suggests that, in the present Coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 should be included in the differential diagnosis of parotitis and sialadenitis along with mumps and f lue. Notably, a respi ratory panel and serology for other potential causes are needed in case of parotitis-like disease.