Which salivary gland inflammation is listed as a differential for regurgitation?

• A. Sialocele
• B. Sialodenitis
• C. Megaesophagus
• D. Cricopharyngeal Achalasia

Answer: (B)

Regurgitation is often thought of in relation to esophageal or pharyngeal dysfunction, but inflammatory processes of the salivary glands can also appear on the differential. Sialadenitis is inflammation of a salivary gland, which can alter saliva flow, cause oral discomfort, and affect swallowing in a way that mimics or contributes to regurgitation. In contrast, a sialocele is a saliva collection from a ruptured duct (not inflammation), and the other two options describe esophageal motor problems—megaesophagus and cricopharyngeal achalasia—that cause regurgitation through different mechanisms. So the salivary gland inflammation considered in the differential is sialadenitis.