title: Imaging of cystic or cyst-like neck masses.
abstract: Cystic or cyst-like neck masses form a unique category within head and neck radiology with unique differential diagnoses. The precise anatomical location and imaging appearances are important for accurate diagnosis and formulating the differential diagnoses of cystic lesions in the neck. In vast majority of cases ultrasound, sometimes supplemented by fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC), is adequate for pre-treatment assessment. For large, deep-seated lesions assessment using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) often provides useful supplementary information. Radiologists should be aware of imaging findings of common cystic neck masses to help in their appropriate management.
authors.affiliation: Department of Diagnostic Radiology & Organ Imaging, Prince of Wales Hospital, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
authors.forename: K T
authors.initials: KT
authors.lastname: Wong
authors.forename: Y Y P
authors.initials: YY
authors.lastname: Lee
authors.forename: A D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: King
authors.forename: A T
authors.initials: AT
authors.lastname: Ahuja
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D044963:Biopsy, Fine-Needle; D002648:Child; D003560:Cysts / Q000175:diagnosis*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods; D009333:Neck / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D015641:Radiography, Interventional; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods; D018084:Ultrasonography, Interventional