Computed tomography of paranasopharyngeal spaces: normal variations and criteria for tumour extension

In 137 normal CT scans of the nasopharynx, the parapharyngeal spaces at the nasopharynx level were asymmetrical in 30%. Their difference in width and distance from the midline was greater than 1 mm in 51% and 44% respectively. Fat was absent in the interpterygoid fascia in 20%, in the alar fascia in 28%, in the prevertebral space in 35%, and in the retropharyngeal space in 99% of patients. Assessment of tumour extension to the paranasopharyngeal space usually relies on symmetry and fascial fat planes. As either feature may not be present in the normal person, the relation of the tumour to two lines representing two fascial planes is proposed as a complementary method for the evaluation of tumour extension.