Computed tomography of the nasopharynx: normal and variants of normal

Abstract

In 52 normal nasopharyngeal computed tomographic (CT) scans the various tissue planes deep to the mucosa were always seen and appeared symmetric. The superficial structures were more often asymmetric; however, by using physiologic maneuvers, coronal scanning, and this very reliable deep plane anatomy, a highly accurate interpretation is possible. A knowledge of these simple scanning techniques and of the range of normal anatomy will help radiologists avoid the equivocal and false-positive interpretations that plague other radiographic studies of this area. Because of its deep plane information, CT best complements the clinical evaluation of the nasopharynx, and should be the radiographic examination of choice.