Imaging study of lymph nodes in head and neck oncology

Abstract

In clinical practice, the study of cervical lymph nodes is common. The anamnesis and the physical examination often guide the etiology, however sometimes we have to use images studies. This is very relevant when we are assessing a metastatic lymph node due to head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Ultrasound is usually used for the initial study of a cervical mass where the physician cannot determine its origin. The computed tomography allows a global evaluation of the neck. It is most often used when there is suspicion or confirmed diagnoses of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Magnetic resonance imaging is useful in cases that require evaluation of a primary neoplasm and the neck, such in salivary gland cancers, tongue base cancers, oral tongue or mouth floor tumors. PET-CT is a good test to evaluate head and neck cancers of unk- nown primary site and possible distant metastases, as well as evaluation of persistent adenopathies after treatment with radiochemotherapy. Having an organized evaluation in the study of a lymph node, with an adequate use of the imaging resource, helps not to hinder the diagnostic process and give an accurate diagnosis and treatment.