Can Multi-Detector Computed Tomography (MDCT) Help in Differentiation of Neoplastic Parotid Lesions?

Background: Parotid lesions are uncommon issue in clinical practice with wide differential diagnosis based upon multiple pathological varieties and limited clinical values. Computed tomography (CT) try to solve this issue as possible. Objectives: To evaluate the diagnostic reliability of multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) in characterization of benign and malignant parotid lesions using a systematic approach in comparison to final pathological data. Patients & Methods: A retrospective study includes136 patients diagnosed pathologically as parotid tumors underwent multi-detector computerized tomography (MDCT) examination using 64-row multi-detector computerized tomography (CT) scanner. All the images were evaluated for certain multi-detector computerized tomography (MDCT) criteria in a systematic manner. Results: Our study revealed primary malignant tumors in 88 patients, secondary metastatic lesions in 3 patients and benign tumors in 45 patients. Five multi-detector computerized tomography (MDCT) criteria were statistically significant in differentiating between benign and malignant parotid lesions, they were; lesion margin (p=0.001), location (p=0.05), enhancement pattern (p=0.001), central necrosis (p=0.001) and para-pharyngeal space extension(p=0.001). Conclusion: Multi-detector computerized tomography (MDCT) can be valuable in differentiating between benign and malignant parotid lesions and leading the management strategy aiming for best surgical outcome.