Guerra, I.Costa, E.Mansilha, H.Lima, R.2011-06-012011-06-012010Nascer e Crescer 2010; 19(1): 17-190872-0754http://hdl.handle.net/10400.16/660ABSTRACT The presence of air within the parotid gland is called pneumoparotid. This is a rare cause of parotid swelling and is associated to many precipitant factors. A seven -year -old boy was seen at the Emergency Department due to a sudden bilateral parotid swelling. The physical examination revealed a crepitus in the parotid glands. Radiography and ultrasonography suggested the presence of air. This acute episode was self -limited with complete resolution within forty -eight hours. Clinical history revealed that the child had been fi lling up balloons before the symptoms began. An early diagnosis avoids recurrent attacks and is based on the identifi cation of air within the parotid gland associated with the existence of precipitant factors.engParotid swellingPneumoparotidPneumosialadenitisSubcutaneousjournal article