Acute Submandibular Sialadenitis in a 9-Month-Old Infant: A Case Report

Abstract

In the pediatric population, sialadenitis accounts for nearly 10% of all salivary gland diseases. In this case, the patient is a 9-month-old boy who had acute sialadenitis accompanied by systemic symptoms which made the patient's condition weak and required hospitalization. Transmission of bacteria from the oral cavity to the salivary ducts and salivary glands (retrograde bacterial contamination of the oral flora) and decreased saliva production due to lack of fluid intake due to cough and cold were suspected as risk factors in this patient. The patient came to the hospital with complaints of swelling of the left neck under the left lower jaw since 10 days before being admitted to the hospital with fever and malaise, accompanied by nausea, vomiting and decreased appetite. Laboratory examination revealed leukocytosis with increased levels of C-reactive protein. Submandibular ultrasound examination revealed multiple bilateral submandibular lymph nodes, especially the left. The results of blood culture examination did not reveal the growth of aerobic bacteria. Fine-needle aspiration examination of left submandibular lymph node biopsy revealed nonspecific chronic lymphadenitis. The patient was diagnosed with acute submandibular sialadenitis caused by bacterial infection and received therapy such as hydration, empirical broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics, and symptomatic treatment.