Bulimia and parotid enlargement--case report and treatment.

Bulimia is a behavioral eating disorder affecting young adult women. Parotid enlargement may occur as a result, although the cause of this swelling is as yet unknown. These changes can be irreversible, unresponsive to resumption of normal dietary habits. The physical unattractiveness of this complication can adversely affect the patient's wellbeing, demanding more active treatment. Treatment of this parotid enlargement has not previously been dealt with definitively. A case study is presented wherein such an individual was treated with bilateral superficial parotidectomy with good results, both emotionally and physically. As the incidence of this disorder continues to increase dramatically, the surgeon may gain a place in the treatment of bulimia.