The diagnosis and management of parotid disease.

A specific and regimented approach to the diagnosis and management of patients with disease of the parotid gland is necessary for correct diagnosis and management. Patient morbidity or mortality may result if there is a delay in the diagnosis of a malignant parotid tumor. This article reviews the diagnosis and management of parotid disease, with a particular concentration on neoplastic processes. An overview of the superficial parotid mass is emphasized because most neoplastic processes occupy the superficial lobe of the parotid gland.