Sialography and CT-Sialography in the Diagnosis of Parotid Masses

Parotid masses were evaluated by sialography and CT-sialography in 22 patients. Nineteen were benign tumors and one a metastasis. All were identified by CT. Two patients with sialoadenitis were misinterpreted at CT. All benign tumors appeared as lobulated, sharply marginated masses, embedded in displaced glandular parenchyma. The metastasis was lobulated, irregular and located within the gland. With sialography, 17 tumors were identified and 3 small superficial tumors overlooked. Both patients with sialoadenitis were diagnosed by sialography. CT-sialography is recommended in patients with suggested parotid masses, and sialography in suggested inflammatory disease.