Question

In mumps, what glands swell to produce the disease's characteristic appearance? a. the sublingual glands b. the gastric glands c. the parotid glands d. the submandibular glands

Short answer

c. the parotid glands

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Gland Responsible for Mumps

Mumps is a viral infection that primarily affects the salivary glands. The characteristic swelling associated with mumps is due to inflammation of one set of salivary glands.

Recall the Salivary Glands Locations

There are three pairs of major salivary glands in the human body: the parotid glands, the submandibular glands, and the sublingual glands.

Determine the Correct Gland Involved in Mumps

Mumps most commonly affects the parotid glands, which are located on the sides of the face, near the ears. The inflammation of the parotid glands leads to the puffy cheeks characteristic of mumps.

Key concepts

Parotid Glands Inflammation

Inflammation of the parotid glands, a medical condition often linked to the mumps virus, manifests as painful swelling in one or both of the parotid glands. These glands, which are the largest of the major salivary glands, are situated just in front of each ear and extend to the area below the jawline. This particular inflammation is what gives mumps its distinctive appearance.

During a mumps infection, the virus aggressively targets these glands, leading to an immune response that causes the glands to swell and become tender to the touch. It's often accompanied by symptoms like fever, headache, and difficulty eating or speaking due to the pain and swelling. The inflammation can have an impact on other bodily functions as well, considering the glands produce saliva that is vital for the initial digestion of food and maintaining oral health.

Characteristic Swelling of Mumps

The hallmark sign of a mumps infection is the noticeable swelling and puffiness of the cheeks and jaw area. This is due to the aforementioned inflammation of the parotid glands. The virus that causes mumps, a paramyxovirus, leads to enlargement of these glands, resulting in a distinct facial appearance often described as 'chipmunk cheeks.'

Visual Identification

Distinguishing this swelling from other types of facial swelling is crucial in diagnosing mumps. It typically begins near the ear and can cause considerable discomfort, including pain while chewing or swallowing. As mumps is contagious, recognizing these signs early on is essential for preventing its spread.

Major Salivary Glands Locations

The human body is equipped with three pairs of major salivary glands, each having its unique location and function in the process of food consumption and digestion:

• Parotid Glands: As noted earlier, these are located in front of and just below each ear and are responsible for producing saliva to begin the digestive process when consuming food.
• Submandibular Glands: These can be found under the jaw and supply saliva to the mouth through a network of ducts.
• Sublingual Glands: These are situated beneath the tongue and are the smallest of the three, secreting saliva that helps with swallowing and digestion.

Understanding the locations of these glands is crucial, not only for identifying conditions like mumps but also for general healthcare and treatment of other salivary gland disorders.