Correlation of fine needle aspiration biopsy and CT scanning of parotid masses

Preoperative evaluation of parotid tumors still poses difficult problems for the head and neck surgeon. The complex anatomy of the parotid space leads to difficulty in localizing these tumors. In addition, physical examination will rarely determine whether a parotid lesion is benign or malignant. High resolution CT scanning with contrast and fine needle aspiration can provide enough preoperative information to enable the surgeon to counsel his patient concerning possible risks and the extent of surgery that may be indicated. We are able to determine tumor location, multiple or bilateral masses, associated adenopathy, and often specific tumor histology. Forty-two parotid aspirates and 26 CT scans were reviewed and correlated with their postoperative pathology specimen. Parotid aspiration cytology was found to be a highly accurate and safe procedure for preoperative determination of parotid pathology. However, the CT scan was specific only in defining the anatomic localization and extent of a parotid mass.