Abstract
BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus is a prevalent metabolic disorder that can result in the non-enflamatuar enlargement of the parotid gland. It is recognised as a condition that can impair microvascular perfusion. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The parotid glands of 38 individuals with diabetes and 38 healthy controls were examined bilaterally using ultrasound to assess parameters of volume, stiffness and microvascularity. RESULTS: A statistically significant increase in parotid gland volume and a statistically significant decrease in microvascularity were observed in diabetic patients. Furthermore, a statistically significant increase in parotid gland volume was noted in diabetic individuals who were using antidiabetic drugs in comparison to non-users. A significant negative correlation was identified between the duration of exposure to diabetes and microvascularity. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasonographic imaging can be used to assess the dimensions and microvascularity of the parotid gland.