Inflammation of the parotid gland, parotitis, or mumps, occurs as an independent disease, possibly due to a small diplococcus described by Laveran. The infection probably occurs by way of the parotid duct; the gland becomes much swollen and tense on account of a marked serous exudation and hyperemia. Although abscess formation appears imminent, it is very unusual for suppuration to occur. The exudate can be absorbed and the gland return to a normal condition very rapidly. There may be a chronic induration remaining, or if abscess formation with rupture has taken place, a fistula may result. Secondary inflammation of the testicles, with sometimes subsequent atrophy, or of the Ovaries may occur either during the attack or shortly after the inflammation has subsided.

In the inflammation secondary to infectious diseases, as typhoid, scarlet fever, diphtheria, and others, suppuration is not so uncommon. Small abscesses may form and become confluent. The inflammation may become chronic with hyperplasia of the fibrous connective tissue, or it may subside and leave no traces.

Angina ludovici is a very severe form of inflammation of the submaxillary gland. The infection extends into the surrounding tissues, with suppuration and even gangrene. Abscesses form and discharge either externally or in the mouth; necrosis and gangrene are present and death frequently occurs. Edema of the glottis, with fatal results, may also occur. This disease may be the result of infection by means of carious teeth or infection of the gland itself during the course of an infectious disease, particularly scarlet fever.