Aplasia of the parotid gland in Down syndrome

Salivary gland aplasia has not to our knowledge been previously reported in association with Down syndrome. We present a case of bilateral parotid aplasia in a patient with Down syndrome. Clinically he had aplasia of the major salivary glands and symptoms of xerostomia. Thirteen other family members over three generations were examined, and all had functional parotid glands. We reviewed publications about Down syndrome and salivary aplasia, together with the data regarding his other clinical problems and family background. His oral problems were inadequate plaque control, dental caries, and erosion of the teeth.