Computed tomography of masses in the lacrimal gland region

Twenty patients with mass lesions in the lacrimal gland region were evaluated with computed tomography (CT). The extent of the mass and its relationship to the globe, optic nerve, and extraocular muscles were clearly seen. The CT appearance on plain scan and the presence or absence of contrast enhancement, bone involvement, and cystic components often suggested the specific pathological diagnosis. Although orbital ultrasonography and CT were frequently complementary, ultrasonography was more definitive in inflammatory diseases, while CT demonstrated better extraorbital extension.