How is mumps diagnosed?

Mumps is usually diagnosed based on the appearance of symptoms and a physical examination. A doctor may order additional tests to confirm the diagnosis, such as:

* Saliva tests: These tests can detect the presence of the mumps virus in saliva.

* Blood tests: These tests can detect antibodies to the mumps virus, which indicates that the person has been infected with the virus.

Ultrasound: This imaging test can show swelling and inflammation in the salivary glands.

* Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test: This test can detect the mumps virus in a sample of fluid or tissue.