Parotid CT sialography.

Computed tomographic (CT) scanning of the parotid gland during the injection of water-soluble contrast medium allows precise mapping of the gland's parenchyma and of any filling defects or extrinsic masses. Thirty-six patients were examined in this way. The most valuable information that was gained was the differentiation of extrinsic and intrinsic tumors and an accurate appraisal of the location of the facial nerve with respect to intrinsic parotid lesions. In the majority of patients the diagnosis of benign or malignant tumor is suggested by the patterns of tumor growth. Inflammatory disease shows diminution in the amount of parotid parenchyma in relationship to interstitial tissues, but the appearance is not sufficiently characteristic for definitive diagnosis.