Regional cervical lymph nodes. A CT-based classification

Abstract

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Learning Objectives: 1. Describe appropriately the different levels and regions of cervical lymph node structures. 2. Identify and differentiate normal anatomic structures in the neck from potentially malignant lymphadenopathy. 3. Increase accuracy of CT and PET/CT diagnostic interpretation.

Abstract Body: In the era of hybrid anatomic and metabolic/functional imaging, precise anatomic demarcation of body structures is imperative. Regions of high structural complexity, such as the neck, are always challenging. Three hundred of the estimated 800 lymph nodes in the body are situated in the neck. By improving the ability to identify and differentiate benign from pathologic structures, one can increase the accuracy of CT and PET/CT diagnostic interpretation. This educational exhibit provides an image-based nodal classification for the evaluation of cervical adenopathy. It will classify nodal group regions in a N0 neck by determining levels, using structures such as the hyoid bone and cricoid cartilage, and peripheral boundaries, such as muscle groups and vessel structures. These regions will be further detailed using color-coded, area outlines with matching legends for each transaxial CT slice. Supporting text explanations will also be available.