Radiological profiles of nasopharyngeal anatomy as seen in computed tomography scans of normal patients undergoing brain scans for other neurological problems in Konkani population

Abstract

Background: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma arises from interactions between underlying genetic and racial predilection and variety environmental factors. It is locally aggressive and presents with occult cervical nodal metastasis. A thorough understanding of radiological regional anatomy of the nasopharynx in Indians particularly Konkani population is important for early detection of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Methods: Routine computed tomography of brain, head and neck for other neurological problems like stroke clearly delineates the loco-regional anatomy of the nasopharynx. Computed tomography (CT) images stored in the computer system were studied to delineate the normal loco-regional anatomy of nasopharynx with special reference to anatomical structure of fossa of Rosenmueller and to find out the normal dimensions of nasopharynx in Konkani population. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a hidden and cryptic killer with relatively higher incidence among young population. To develop a local screening CT program for earlier detection of this occult malignancy was another purpose of this endeavour. Results: Internal carotid artery lies at the depth of around 1 to 1.7 cm from floor of lateral pharyngeal recess (fossa of rosenmuller); this figure has to be borne in mind while doing invasive procedures of nasopharynx like biopsies and adenoidectomy. Conclusions: Posterior pharyngeal wall thickness of more than 2.4 cm and adenoid mass extending to posterior margin of the medial pterygoid plate is suspicious of malignancy. A screening protocol of CT nasopharynx has been suggested as a fruit of this endeavour.