A simplified approach to the spaces of the suprahyoid neck

CT and MR imaging permit exquisite visualization of the complex spatial anatomy of the suprahyoid neck. In spite of the large body of literature devoted to these spaces, their names and locations often are difficult to learn. By knowing the spaces and their components, the radiologist can generate an anatomically based differential diagnosis. This article presents a simplified approach to the various spaces of the suprahyoid neck and their anatomic components. Each space is discussed separately and is accompanied by a table that lists a differential diagnosis based primarily on the normal anatomic contents of the space.