Parotid masses are frequently discovered as incidental findings on imaging ordered for unrelated reasons. This discussion reveals the critical diagnostic pathway from initial referral through workup, emphasizing key red flags clinicians should assess: facial nerve function, mass mobility and fixation (suggesting malignant invasion), prior skin cancer history (as the parotid serves as a lymph node basin for cutaneous malignancies), and autoimmune conditions. Learn why ultrasound has become an immediate extension of the physical exam and why tissue biopsy remains essential for distinguishing benign from malignant lesions—insights that can streamline your approach to these complex cases
Contributors:
Dr. Ashley Agan is an otolaryngologist in Dallas, TX.
Dr. Mirabelle Sajisevi is an ENT practicing at University of Vermont Health in Burlington, Vermont.
Dr. Gopi Shah is a pediatric otolaryngologist and the co-host of BackTable ENT.
