parotid gland palpation
Last reviewed 01/2018
In order to examine for parotid enlargement, it is necessary to ask the patient to clench the teeth so that the masseter muscle is palpable.
The parotid gland is best felt behind the masseter muscle and in front of the ear.
Remember to examine the deep lobe which may be seen and felt through the mouth and may displace the tonsil if enlarged. The regional lymph nodes should be palpated in case of involvement with secondary deposits from a parotid carcinoma.