Lacrimal gland and fossa masses: evaluation by computed tomography and A-mode echography.

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Abstract
Although masses of the lacrimal gland and fossa are accurately localized by CT [computed tomography], their similar appearances often make differentiation between various pathological entities difficult. Thirty-two patients were examined with CT and/or standardized A-mode echography (SAE) to determine if SAE added significant information to that supplied by CT alone. Other than 5 cases of dermoid cysts, which were fat containing, and 1 case of lacrimal gland pseudotumor, which had associated uveal scleral thickening and enhancement, there was no specific CT pattern that allowed a definite diagnosis. SAE reflectivity patterns, however, allowed separation of masses into the following categories: pseudotumor/lymphoma, carcinoma/metastasis, benign mixed adenoma, lymphangioma, and dermoid cyst. SAE is an important adjunct to CT in the diagnosis of lacrimal gland/fossa masses that are not fat containing.