Diagnostic imaging of the upper airway

Diagnostic imaging plays an essential role in the evaluation of disease processes that affect the upper airway. Imaging allows for the localization and characterization of various conditions that are often occult on physical examination. Plain radiography maintains a limited role in airway evaluation, whereas advanced imaging modalities, including computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, have emerged as indispensable tools in patient evaluation. Common disease entities affecting the upper airway in the adult population, including trauma, infectious/inflammatory diseases, and neoplastic diseases, as well as other common pathologic conditions are reviewed in this article.