Imaging of the salivary glands

Semin Ultrasound CT MR. 1995 Dec;16(6):546-68. doi: 10.1016/s0887-2171(06)80025-9.

Abstract

CT and MRI have greatly facilitated evaluation of pathology of the three pairs of major salivary glands and the hundreds of minor salivary glands. Imaging can frequently offer a specific histological diagnosis for benign and malignant neoplasms of the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands. Obstruction, infection, autoimmune processes, and congenital anomalies also are readily diagnosed. CT and MRI studies assess the anatomic extent of minor salivary gland neoplasms. Sialography continues to provide useful information about intrinsic abnormalities of the parotid and submandibular ducts.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Reference Values
  • Salivary Gland Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Salivary Gland Diseases / pathology
  • Salivary Gland Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Salivary Gland Neoplasms / pathology
  • Salivary Glands / pathology
  • Sialography*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*