Mumps primarily causes inflammation of which gland?

Mumps is a viral infection that is most commonly known for causing inflammation of the parotid gland, which is one of the salivary glands located near the jawline, just in front of the ears. The inflammation can cause swelling, pain, and discomfort in the affected area, which is characteristic of mumps infections. This swelling is due to the body’s immune response trying to combat the virus affecting these glands.

The parotid gland is particularly susceptible to the mumps virus, which is why this answer accurately reflects the primary feature of the disease. The other glands listed, such as the thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary glands, are not primarily affected by mumps. Each of these glands has different biological functions and is generally involved in various systemic processes not directly related to the viral infection caused by mumps. Thus, the prominence of parotid gland involvement establishes why it is the correct response to this question.