User:Mr. Ibrahem/Sialolithiasis

Sialolithiasis, also known as salivary stones, is the formation of a stone within the duct of a salivary gland. This includes the submandibular gland (85%), parotid gland (15%), and sublingual gland. Symptoms commonly include pain and swelling of the affected gland with meals, which resolves over a few hours. Complications may include infection of the gland or abscess formation.

Most cases are of unclear cause. Risk factors may include dehydration, decreased food intake, use of anticholinergic or diuretic medication, and gout. Sjögren's syndrome is not related. Diagnosis may be based on examination or medical imaging.

Initial management is generally with massage of the gland, NSAIDs, and substances to increase saliva production (such as lemon). If signs of infection are present, antibiotics are recommended. A number of other techniques including endoscopic removal and external shockwave lithotripsy may be used if this is not effective. Surgical removal of the gland is a last resort.

About 1 in 20,000 are affected a year. It occurs most commonly at the age of 30–60. Males are more commonly affected than females. It is the most common cause of swelling of a salivary gland. Early description of the condition are attributed to Hippocrates around 400 BC.