Imaging Features of Parotid Neoplasms and Inflammatory Mimics in the Adult Population

Parotid neoplasms in the adult population can manifest with a variety of imaging patterns, and benign and malignant histologies are often indistinguishable on CT and ultrasound. Furthermore, many inflammatory and infectious processes involving the parotid glands can mimic neoplasia, further complicating accurate diagnosis. However, there are several overarching common features that can help distinguish benign parotid tumors from malignant tumors on MRI. While tissue sampling is frequently required for definitive evaluation, this review will strive to illustrate certain patterns that, when recognized, will boost the confidence of the interpreting radiologist and guide subsequent imaging or treatment.

Learning Objective: To describe the spectrum of neoplasia and neoplastic mimics encountered in the parotid glands in the adult population and define the MR features that can help distinguish between benign and malignant parotid tumors.