INFRAHYOID NECK

Imaging is an indispensable tool in patients with clinical suspicion o f infrahyoid neck disease. CT and MR imaging can establish a positive diagnosis by showing a true mass (versus a pseudomass). In addition, b y defining the exact space of origin of the lesion and its characteris tics (CT density, MR signal, homo- or heterogeneity, contour, contrast enhancement), imaging can predict the correct diagnosis. Because it o ffers multiplanar, multiparameter information, MR imaging, performed w ith a dedicated coil and appropriate artifact-reduction techniques, us ually is the modality of choice.