A parotid scan is a test that is performed by either using an ultrasound or by using a CT scan. This test is used to check for a specific type of parotid problem which is the occurrence of blockages in the ducts of the parotid gland. The parotid gland is the main gland of the salivary glands and is located on either sides of the face. Occasionally, there can be the development of blockages in the ducts of this gland by calcium deposits calcifying. This is because the saliva is one of the few fluids in the human body that contains a high amount of calcium. This is further because our teeth are constantly in a state of being degraded by the action of chewing and the buildup of acid in the mouth from bacterial activity. This degradation is reversed by the remineralisation of the teeth because of the high calcium content in the saliva.
The human salivary glands face a wide variety of problems that can arise from infections. Mumps is one of the most famous problems. This is a disease that is caused by a virus called the cytomegalovirus. It is part of the herpes virus family and therefore never really leaves the body after the initial infection. Calcium buildups and blockages are not caused by this problem but rather because of the natural function of the salivary glands. These stones can cause swelling of the glands and also some amount of pain. The way that these stones are treated includes inducing salivation by having lots of sour tasting food. This will cause the calcifications to be pushed out of the ducts. More severe forms can be dealt with by massaging the glands and breaking up the calcifications or even using a technique that is used to break up kidney stones.
This technique is called lithotripsy, a procedure in which shockwaves are created and directed at the salivary glands. This breaks up the blockage and stones and they pass out of the ducts. This technique is quite safe to use in the salivary glands. Should blockages continue to stop the production of saliva, the mouth will dry out and the most important function of saliva – to start the digestive process – will not occur. Human saliva also contains a high amount of bacteria that are beneficial. These prevent the growth of other harmful bacteria and fungi like candida that can cause oral thrush and other similar problems.