CT evaluation of parathyroid adenomas: diagnostic criteria and pitfalls

Sixty-three patients with biochemically proven primary hyperparathyroidism underwent CT of the neck and upper chest prior to surgery. All examinations were prospectively evaluated. Parathyroid adenomas were correctly identified on CT in 81% of patients. Thyroid adenomas, tortuous vessels, the esophagus, and atypical parathyroid adenomas may be potential sources of error in the diagnosis of parathyroid adenomas.