Parotid Gland Lesions: Multiparametric Ultrasound and MRI Features

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Oncology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• High-resolution ultrasound (US) is the initial imaging choice for salivary gland lesions due to its accessibility and safety.
• Distinguishing benign from malignant salivary gland tumors using conventional US and color Doppler is often difficult due to overlapping features.
• Advanced imaging techniques are crucial for accurate characterization of parotid gland tumors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review benign and malignant parotid gland tumors.
• To emphasize the role of multiparametric ultrasound and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in differentiating these lesions.
• To discuss the utility of contrast-enhanced ultrasound and elastography.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on salivary gland tumor imaging.
• Emphasis on multiparametric ultrasound (including contrast-enhanced US and elastography) and contrast-enhanced MR imaging.
• Analysis of imaging features differentiating benign and malignant parotid gland lesions.

Main Results:

• Conventional ultrasound features can be ambiguous, with some benign tumors mimicking malignant ones.
• Contrast-enhanced ultrasound and US elastography offer improved lesion characterization.
• Contrast-enhanced MR imaging serves as the definitive modality for atypical lesions.

Conclusions:

• Multiparametric ultrasound and MR imaging are essential for accurate diagnosis of parotid gland tumors.
• Advanced US techniques enhance the ability to differentiate benign and malignant lesions.
• Accurate imaging is critical for appropriate patient management and treatment planning.