Tumors of parotid gland and parapharyngeal space: Role of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging

Abstract

The importance of imaging as a diagnostic aid in the treatment of head and neck disease has been clearly shown by many published scientific articles. Computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) can enhance the accuracy of the diagnosis and detail the location of the tumor and its relationship to neurovascular and other important structures. The information available from imaging studies is of paramount importance in patients with head and neck tumors. In cases of parotid gland tumors and parapharyngeal space masses, the surgical techniques and approaches may be changed if a parapharyngeal mass can be preoperatively differentiated from an intraparotid mass. The purpose of this article is to review the value of CT scanning and MR imaging in the diagnosis as well as preoperative work-up of parotid tumors and lesions of the parapharyngeal space.