Helical CT scan in evaluation of metastatic neck adenopathy

ABSTRACT

To determine the diagnostic accuracy of helical computed tomography [CT] in detection of metastatic neck lymphadenopathy with histopathological correlation. Comparative cross sectional study. This study was conducted in the Departments of Diagnostic Radiology and Pathology, Karachi from August 2005 to June 2006. A group of 51 patients was included in this study. Helical CT scan was carried out after an IV bolus injection of approximately 100 ml. of contrast medium. CT scans were evaluated for metastatic lymphadenopathy i.e. abnormality of nodal size and architecture and irregular nodal enhancement. The radiological findings on the CT scans were compared with the pathological findings. The study included 51 patients with age ranging from 22 to 77 years. Correct assessment of malignancy was made on CT scan in 48 patients. CT scan was false positive in one and false negative in two patients. Contrast enhanced Helical CT proved to be accurate for preoperative evaluation and subsequent management of cervical metastatic neck adenopathy