Bilateral parotid swelling caused by sarcoidosis

BACKGROUND: Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease characteristically causing bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy. Salivary gland swellings also are seen, which mandate recognition by the dental profession.

CASE DESCRIPTION: The authors describe a patient whose diagnosis of sarcoidosis was tenuous. Ocular involvement and an elevated serum angiotensin-converting enzyme level suggested a diagnosis of sarcoidosis. Confirmation with a tissue biopsy was achieved only when the clinicians recognized that salivary gland swelling probably represented a manifestation of the disease. Steroid therapy was instituted.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: It is important for the dental practitioner to be familiar with the salivary gland manifestation of sarcoidosis. Early recognition and intervention aborts or slows disease progression.