Radiology of the jugular tubercles

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Radiology
• Skull Base Anatomy

Background:

• The jugular tubercles are anatomical landmarks located on the inferolateral margins of the clivus.
• These protuberances project posterosuperiorly, overlying the hypoglossal canals.
• Their appearance can vary significantly in size and shape.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the normal and pathological radiographic appearance of the jugular tubercles.
• To establish criteria for identifying jugular tubercles on various imaging modalities.
• To highlight the typical morphology of jugular tubercles, noting variations.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of radiographic studies, including anteroposterior temporal bone tomograms and axial/coronal CT scans.
• Examination of dried skulls to assess anatomical variations.
• Review of clinical cases, both normal and abnormal, to correlate imaging findings with pathology.

Main Results:

• Jugular tubercles are consistently visualized on routine anteroposterior temporal bone tomograms and CT scans.
• These structures exhibit considerable variation in size, shape (ovoid, elongated, squared, asymmetric), and configuration.
• A key finding is that normal jugular tubercles do not present with flattened or concave superior surfaces.

Conclusions:

• Radiographic assessment of jugular tubercles is feasible using standard imaging techniques.
• Understanding the normal range of variation in jugular tubercle morphology is crucial for accurate interpretation.
• The absence of flattened or concave superior surfaces is a distinguishing feature of normal jugular tubercles, aiding in the identification of potential abnormalities.