[Chronic recurrent parotitis in childhood].

INTRODUCTION: Chronic recurrent parotitis is an uncommon disease in childhood. Its cause remains unknown.

METHODS: Retrospective study of 30 patients with recurrent parotitis followed up at our hospital during the last 4 years. Guidelines for the management of this disease, as well as the main epidemiological data, diagnostic tests performed, treatments given and outcome, are presented.

RESULTS: Mean age at onset of symptoms was 6 years. The most common pattern was 34 attacks per year. The most common clinical features were pyrexia and painful swelling. Pus (through Stensen's duct) was absent in most patients. Mean duration of each episode was 1 week.

CONCLUSION: The epidemiological data were similar to those found by other authors. In all cases, diagnosis was made by sialography, a technique that may itself resolve symptoms. Ultrasonography is also useful and, because it is innocuous, it could be a first step investigation.