Parotid
Parotid gland is the largest of the salivary glands in humans. It is a bilateral structure, and presents itself in a pair located in front of the ears extending to the space below the ear to the upper neck.
Anatomy[edit | edit source]
The parotid gland is wrapped around the mandibular ramus, and secretes saliva through the parotid duct (also known as Stensen's duct) into the mouth, to facilitate mastication and swallowing and to begin the digestion of starches.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary function of the parotid gland is the production of saliva. This saliva is serous in nature and is rich in amylase, an enzyme that breaks down starch into maltose and dextrin.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
Diseases of the parotid gland can have significant effects. These can include parotitis (inflammation), parotid gland tumors, and parotid duct obstruction.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
