Learning objectives
1.
To describe the normal radiological anatomy of the parotid glands.
2.
To show the radiological findings of the most frequent pathologies that affect them.
3.
To review the different image methods available to us (sialography,
ultrasound,
CT and MRI) in the study of the pathology of the parotid gland.
Background
Theparotid glandis the largest of the salivary glandsand secretes saliva via the parotid duct into the oral cavity to facilitate mastication and swallowing.
It is located in the parotid space.
PAROTID GLAND ANATOMY
- The parotid gland is located in the retromandibularfossa,
anterior to the ear and sternocleidomastoidmuscle.
Parts of the superficial lobe cover theramus of the mandible and the posterior part ofthe masseter muscle.
- The border between the superficial and deepparotid lobes is created by a plane in whichthe facial nerve and its...
Findings and procedure details
PATHOLOGY OF THE PAROTID GLAND
1.
SIALOLITHIASIS
Salivary stones are most often located in the submandibulargland (60%–90% of cases) and maybe multiple.
Parotid glands are affectedin about 10%–20% of cases.
- On classic radiographs,
intraglandular andsmall stones may be missed,
and only about 20%of sialoliths are radiopaque.
- CT allows visualizationof large stones but without their preciselocalization and without the possibility of assessment of the ducts.
- The standard techniquefor imaging of the intraglandular ductal system remains digital sialography. Fig. 3
-US features of sialolithiasis...
Conclusion
Imaging tests (ultrasound,
CT and MR),
are very useful to guide the diagnosis of parotid pathology.
It is important to know the image findings of the parotid pathology for an adequate diagnosis and treatment.
Personal information
Ana Belén Barba Arce.
University Hospital " Marqués de Valdecilla".
Department of Radiology.
Avd.
valdecilla s/n .
39008.
Santander.
Spain.
References
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Howlett DC.
High resolution ultrasound assessment of the parotid gland.
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Grazioli L,
Olivetti L,
Matricardi L et-al.
Comparison of ultrasonography,
computerized tomography,
and magnetic resonance in the study of parotid masses.
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Howlett DC,
Kesse KW,
Hughes DV et-al.
The role of imaging in the evaluation of parotid...