82 



as possible, and this we subsequently cut in transverse sections, whilst 

 finally we cut a half head of an adult male and of a full-term foetus 

 in horizontal sections to show the undisturbed relations of the gland. 

 We agree with Poirier (2) and Symington (3) that it is difficult 

 to give a geometrical shape to a mass so erratic in outline as this 

 gland. Yet despite its irregularity it has a very constant form. On 

 the whole it most resembles an inverted three-sided pyramid with the 



Glenoid Lobe 



Superfic. Temp. Art. Vein 



Auditory Impressior ., 



..- Duct. 



Fig. 1. External surface of right parotid 

 and glenoid lobe. Natural size. 



■-•Temporo-Mandibular Vain 



nd showing auditory impression 



base uppermost and the apex below. "When seen in section through 

 its upper part, it appears definitely fou-sided ; this is due to the 

 blunting and flattening of the internal border above and doubtless 

 was the cause of Parsons likening the gland to a four-sided pyramid. 

 The Parotid gland presents for description an apex, a base and 

 three surfaces, external, antero-internal and postero-internal. Of these 

 the antero-internal is the most extensive. The apex extends down- 

 wards into the neck for some distance below the angle of the mandible 

 and overlaps the External Carotid Artery and Temporo-Mandibular 

 Vein which pursue a vertical course internal to it. 



