Is It Mumps? Symptoms and Diagnosis - Otolaryngology

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Mumps, also known as epidemic parotitis, is a viral infection primarily characterized by the swelling of the parotid glands, which are located near the jaw and below the ears. The condition is caused by the mumps virus, which is part of the paramyxovirus family. While the classic symptom of mumps is the swelling of the parotid glands, there are other symptoms that may accompany the infection, including fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite. In some cases, mumps can lead to complications such as orchitis (inflammation of the testicles), oophoritis (inflammation of the ovaries), and meningitis.

In your case, you mentioned that you discovered a lump below your right ear, which your doctor suggested could be mumps or parotitis. The absence of pain, fever, or other systemic symptoms is somewhat atypical for mumps, as these symptoms usually accompany the viral infection. However, it is important to note that not all cases of parotid swelling are due to mumps; other causes can include bacterial infections, salivary gland stones, tumors (benign or malignant), or other viral infections.

The decision to perform a biopsy (切片檢查) is typically based on the characteristics of the lump and the clinical suspicion of the underlying cause. If the lump is persistent, growing, or if there are any atypical features observed during imaging studies (like ultrasound), a biopsy may be warranted to rule out more serious conditions, including tumors. In your case, since the ultrasound is being arranged, it will provide more information about the nature of the lump. If the ultrasound shows features that are concerning for a neoplasm or if the lump does not resolve, then a biopsy may be necessary.

It is also worth considering that mumps can be diagnosed based on clinical presentation and laboratory tests, such as serology for mumps-specific IgM antibodies or PCR testing for the mumps virus. If your doctor suspects mumps based on your symptoms and clinical findings, they may recommend these tests.

In summary, while your symptoms could suggest mumps, the lack of systemic symptoms and the presence of a lump warrant further investigation. The ultrasound will help clarify the nature of the lump, and if necessary, a biopsy can provide definitive information. It is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss the results of the ultrasound and any further steps that may be needed based on those findings. Always ensure that you communicate any new symptoms or changes in your condition to your doctor, as this can help guide the diagnosis and treatment plan.