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Neck pathology on a CT scan
Last reviewed: 06.07.2025
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Neck pathology
Tumors and inflammatory processes
Enlarged cervical lymph nodes are visualized as isolated nodular formations within one section and are rarely determined in adjacent sections. In large lymphomas and in lymph node conglomerates, areas of central necrosis are often encountered. In these cases, they are difficult to distinguish from an abscess with central decay. Usually, an abscess is surrounded by a zone of fatty tissue infiltration, the density of which is increased due to edema, as a result of which nerve trunks, arteries and veins become poorly distinguishable. In patients with immunodeficiency, abscesses can reach very large sizes. After the introduction of KB, the outer wall and internal septa of the abscess become stronger. The same picture is characteristic of a large hematoma or tumor with decay. In this case, it is difficult to make a differential diagnosis without a detailed study of the anamnesis.
Thyroid gland
On CT images, the thyroid parenchyma has a homogeneous structure and is clearly delineated from the surrounding tissues. The transverse size of each lobe is 1-3 cm, anteroposterior - 1-2 cm and craniocaudal (upper-lower) - 4-7 cm. The volume of the thyroid gland varies from 20 to 25 ml. If it is enlarged, it is necessary to check the trachea for compression and possible stenosis, and also clearly determine the lower edge of the thyroid gland.
Benign goiter can spread into the retrosternal space and displace laterally the vessels located above the aorta.
The structure of a cancerous thyroid nodule is heterogeneous and does not have a clear boundary with the remaining unchanged tissue of the gland.
In the late stage of cancer, the vessels and nerves of the neck are completely surrounded by the tumor, in which areas of decay appear. The walls of the trachea are compressed and can be infiltrated by the tumor.
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