Mumps

Definition

Mumps is a contagious viral infection characterized by the swelling of the parotid glands, which are salivary glands located near the ears. It can also cause complications in other parts of the body, including the nervous system and reproductive organs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mumps is caused by the mumps virus (MuV), a member of the Paramyxoviridae family.
2. The primary symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, loss of appetite, and swollen salivary glands.
3. Mumps can lead to complications such as meningitis, encephalitis, orchitis in males, and oophoritis in females.
4. Diagnosis is often confirmed through serological tests that detect mumps-specific IgM antibodies or through RT-PCR assays.
5. Vaccination with the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is highly effective in preventing mumps.

Review Questions

• What are the primary symptoms associated with mumps?
• Which diagnostic methods are commonly used to confirm a mumps infection?
• Name at least two potential complications that can arise from a mumps infection.

Related terms

Parotid Glands: Salivary glands located near each ear that become swollen during a mumps infection.

MMR Vaccine:

A vaccine that provides immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella.

RT-PCR Assay: A laboratory technique used to detect RNA sequences such as those from viruses like MuV.