Imaging of Lymphoma Manifestations in the Extracranial Head and Neck Region

Abstract

CT and MRI are the most efficient imaging techniques for diagnosing lymphomas while Gallium-67 scintigraphy is used to assess treatment results. In this review, the imaging aspects of lymphoma are addressed according to anatomical subregions, from the orbit to the trachea, Waldeyer's ring being the most common site, in the head and neck. Lymphomas of this region are not easily distinguished from the more common squamous cell carcinomas; however, multiple extranodal sites, the presence of many non-necrotic lymph nodes and a large nasopharyngeal mass without significant bone destruction should alert one to the possibility of lymphoma.

Key Words:

• Hodgkin's disease
• non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
• squamous cell carcinoma
• CT
• MRI
• cervical lymph node