Approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of tumors of the parapharyngeal space

Abstract

Tumors of the parapharyngeal space appear as painless masses bulging into the tonsillar, nasopharyngeal, or retromandibular area. Most are benign and represent a wide range of tumor growth, from parotid extension to intrinsic growth of nerves, blood vessels, and salivary gland tissues within or around the parapharyngeal area. The anatomy of this area and diagnostic procedures are discussed. Sinus films, tomograms of the skull base and lateral pharyngeal area, CT scans with simultaneous parotid sialograms, and angiograms are part of the evaluation of these rarely seen tumors. The approach to therapy is discussed.