Imaging features of tumors invading parapharyngeal space

To investigate imaging findings of tumors invading parapharyngeal space, MRI, CT, MRA and DSA findings of 19 cases with tumors infiltrating parapharyngeal space proved by surgery and pathology were analysed, including 4 brachial cleft cyst, 3 jugular glomus tumor, 4 carotid body tumor, 3 neurilemoma and 5 carcinoma of nasopharynx involving parapharyngeal space. Fifteen cases underwent MRI scanning, 9 cases had CT scanning, 3 cases MRA and 5 cases DSA. MRI provided clinically useful information about the size, shape, extent and site of the parapharyngeal space tumors, and also their effects on adjacent structures. The main MRI features of paraganglioma presented as many low signal tortuous and creeping vessels in the tumor. The main CT features of jugular glomus tumor revealed as jugular foremen enlargement with bone destruction. Tumour vessels were clearly displayed by MRA and DSA. MRI were superior to CT in diagnosis of tumors invading parapharyngeal space. The location and nature of the lesions could be diagnosed accurately by MRI combined with CT or DSA