The parapharyngeal region is located deep in the space between the upward part of the jaw bone and the ear bone at the back. In this region, there are nerves that move the tongue, pharynx and vocal cords, internal carotid / carotid artery (carotid artery) and lymph nodes. Masses located in this region are usually detected by US (ultrasound), CT (computed tomography) and MRI scans taken for other reasons. It is detected as a result of (magnetic resonance). Sometimes patients consult a doctor when they feel a swelling deep in the lower corner of the jaw. When the tumors of the parapharyngeal region reach a certain size, they may cause a push in the tonsils, side wall of the pharynx and palate from the outside to the inside.
Tumors of the parapharyngeal region are generally benign and grow slowly. Although rare, malignant tumors are also encountered in this region.
The three most common tumors in the parapharyngeal region are listed below:
Salivary gland tumors (most commonly pleomorphic adenoma)
Tumors arising from nerves and nerve sheath (Schwannoma)
Paraganglioma tumors (most commonly Glomus Vagale)
Schwannoma tumor in the parapharyngeal region -
When a mass is found in the parapharyngeal region, radiological examinations are performed after a detailed examination. With imaging methods such as ultrasound, computed tomography and MRI, the structure of the mass, its type, size, place of origin and areas where it spreads are determined. Sometimes a fine needle biopsy is performed to diagnose these masses.
Most of the time, these tumors are completely removed by surgery without resorting to biopsy, and the definitive diagnosis is made at the end of the pathology examination of the removed mass.
The treatment of these tumors almost always involves surgical removal. . However, since they are in an area that is difficult to reach and contains vital structures, surgical treatments require knowledge of the anatomy of that region and experience.
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