Comparison of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of parotid tumors

OBJECTIVE: The role of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the diagnosis of parotid tumors was investigated. METHODS: Forty patients with the clinical suspicion of a parotid mass underwent both CT and MRI of the parotid region. Two radiologists independently assessed the CT and MRI results with respect to tumor localization, tumor margin characteristics, and infiltration of surrounding tissue. Histopathologic specimens were obtained in all cases and correlated with the radiologic findings. RESULTS: The sensitivity and specificity of CT and MRI were nearly the same for tumor location, tumor margin, and tumor infiltration. CONCLUSION: The 2 imaging techniques provided the same information with respect to the presurgical planning and contribute to the diagnosis and therapy planning of parotid tumors.