Fine needle aspiration and computed tomographic scanning in the evaluation of parotid lesions

The usefulness and limitations of needle aspiration and CT scanning are illustrated in three case reports. In conjunction with the clinical evaluation, these modalities can provide useful information, although no definitive decision should be made on the basis of limited cytopathologic data. The ultimate treatment is better planned when the information provided by CT and needle aspiration are combined with the clinical impression. We advocate the use of fine needle aspiration in conjunction with CT scanning for selected parotid area masses. Readily palpated masses located almost certainly in the substance of the parotid may be appropriately managed without these two modalities. We believe that these tests can greatly help in the planning treatment of less definite lesions.