CT of cervical lymph nodes

CT is superior to other imaging modalities for detection of cervical lymphadenopathy: it is a non-invasive means of visualizing the major lymph node bearing areas in the head and neck region. Even though there are some CT observations which can be seen in both benign and malignant disease processes, correlation with history and clinical findings, and use of basic knowledge of mode of disease spread may be helpful in refining the differential diagnosis. The information obtained on CT can be used to plan the appropriate surgical approach and/or radiation ports. Additionally, CT may be used to follow the therapeutic response particularly if radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy is the method of treatment.