A pair of salivary glands tucked into the notch in front of each ear and emptying through parotid ducts by each upper 2nd molar. Although the fluid has some of the thick viscous lubricant nature of saliva from the glands in the floor of the mouth, the parotids secrete high levels of ptyelin and amylase (starch-digesting enzymes) lysozymes (antimicrobial enzymes) and a group of proteins loosely called parotin that stimulate epithelial and nerve cell growth.

	Mumps Related Topic "...Although it usually infects the parotid glands, and is often only a mild condition, it can spread to the testes or ovaries and cause serious problems, particularly when contracted by unresistant adults..." TMJ Problems The Condition "..., neck, behind ears, under arms, groin) abnormalities of the parotid glands (the salivary glands, located below and in front of each ear) abnormal thyroid function skin rashes, dry skin, itching, and sensitivity to the sun Sjögren's Syndrome (dry eyes, dry..."

Last updated: May 10, 2007