Imaging (2007) 19, 83-103
© 2007 The British Institute of Radiology
doi: 10.1259/imaging/61087063
Imaging of the pharynx and larynx
A Siddiqui, MD, FRCR and
S E J Connor, MRCP, FRCR
Neuroradiology Department, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, UK
- An overwhelming majority of pharyngeal and laryngeal tumours are squamous cell carcinomas.
- A knowledge of the imaging anatomy and normal appearances of different tissues is crucial to diagnosis and staging.
- Early mucosal lesions can be easily missed on imaging and are best detected by direct visualization. Imaging appearances always require correlation with endoscopic appearances.
- Submucosal spread is best visualized on cross sectional imaging and the primary role of the radiologist is to accurately stage the extent of disease which directly influences treatment planning.
- Identification of cartilage involvement is crucial but is not without pitfalls.
- Both CT and MRI are widely used for tumour staging and are sometimes complementary.
- Post treatment imaging appearances can mimic tumour. Endoscopy, follow up imaging, PET imaging and biopsy all play a complementary role.
- Perineural and intracranial extension is often seen with nasopharyngeal and occasionally oropharyngeal tumours. The radiologist should be alert to this possibility and carefully inspect the relevant areas.
Imaging of the pharynx and larynx forms an integral part of head and neck radiology. This article attempts to provide a basic understanding and overview of the cross sectional anatomy, techniques and common pathologies affecting the pharynx and larynx. The emphasis is on squamous cell carcinoma, which comprises a major part of the imaging workload. Local staging and patterns of tumour spread are discussed using illustrations and tables.
Copyright © 2007 by the British Institute of Radiology.
