[Value of of fine-needle aspiration cytology and MRI in parotid gland masses].
BACKGROUND
The objective of our study was to discuss the valve of fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the diagnosis and treatment of parotid gland masses.


METHODS
Forty patients were included in the prospective study. They had undergone clinical examination, FNAC and MRI before parotidectomy. The results of these examinations were compared with the corresponding histopathological diagnosis.


RESULTS
When it is positive, FNAC is a good examination of malignant tumours (sensitivity 67%, specificity 79%, positive predictive value 86%, negative predictive value 100%). The MRI allows a good assessment of the tumoural mass and its anatomical relationships (sensitivity 55%, specificity 86%, positive predictive value 89%, negative predictive value 75%). If the T2 sequence shows reduced density (p < 0.05) or in case of bad limitation (p = 0.004), a malignant character is strongly suspected.


CONCLUSIONS
In cases of parotid gland mass, where surgical intervention is necessary, there is no need of special investigations: however FNAC and MRI allow us to anticipate what operation will be required.
Folia
M
M
CHU Rangueil, Clinique, ORL, 1 avenue Jean Poulhès, F-31403 Toulouse, France.
Kany
M
M
Fillola
G
G
Serrano
E
E
Pessey
J J
JJ
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001707:Biopsy, Needle; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010307:Parotid Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity