Final answer:
The term for inflammation of a salivary gland is sialadenitis (option d) , caused by pathogens or abnormal immune reactions leading to the breakdown and dysfunction of the glands, especially in conditions such as mumps affecting the parotid glands.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term for inflammation of a salivary gland is sialadenitis. When pathogens enter the salivary glands, they can cause inflammation and breakdown, rendering the glands non-functional. This inflammation can occur due to various reasons, such as a reaction of the immune system to an antigen within the salivary glands or a compromised immune response to an existing antigen. When the immune system functions abnormally, or its ability to fight off infections is weakened, this can lead to inflammation and subsequent sialadenitis. Salivary glands are exocrine glands in the mouth that secrete saliva through ducts, and when affected by inflammation, it can lead to symptoms such as pain, swelling, and dryness of the mouth.
For example, the parotid glands can be infected by the virus that causes mumps, which is characterized by enlargement and inflammation of these glands, resulting in noticeable swelling between the ears and the jaw, fever, and throat pain.