Diagnostic use of ultrasound in diseases of the head and neck.

Ultrasound has been utilized for diagnostic purposes for the past ten years. It was originally utilized mainly in ophthalmology and obstetrics and gynecology, although recently it has proven invaluable in diagnosis of cardiac and abdominal diseases. While there have been some reports on its use in thyroid and parotid diseases, there are few reports on its general use in the diagnosis of head and neck diseases. This technique is non-invasive and is cost effective when compared to CAT scanning. Ultrasound is capable of differentiating not only cystic from solid lesions but also can be helpful in the diagnosis of malignant vs. benign masses. Its value in delineating the presence of multiple lymph nodes as well as following the course of resolution of infectious diseases is presented, and its use in the diagnosis of those conditions involving the parotid gland itself as well as the parapharyngeal space is presented. It would appear to be a valuable adjunct in our management of head and neck diseases.