The radiologic approach to malignant tumors of the head and neck, with emphasis on computed tomography

In the patient in whom a tumor is suspected, CT is the best radiologic study available for the localization and staging of salivary region masses, and plain CT should be employed if diagnostic uncertainty remains after clinical evaluation of the patient. A combined CT-sialogram should be reserved only for those patients with equivocal plain CT findings. Routine x-ray sialography should be used only if exact anatomic information regarding intraductal disease and duct configuration is required for patient management.