Imaging-Based Nodal Classification for Evaluation of Neck Metastatic Adenopathy

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Abstract
OBJECTIVE. This study was undertaken to create an imaging-based classification for the lymph nodes of the neck that will be readily accepted by clinicians, result in consistent nodal classification, and be easily used by radiologists.SUBJECTS AND METHODS. Over an 18-month period, the necks of 50 patients with cervical lymphadenopathy were scanned with CT, MR imaging, or both. Imaging anatomic landmarks were sought that would create a nodal classification of these necks similar to the clinically based nodal classifications of the American Joint Committee on Cancer and the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. Each nodal level was defined to ensure consistent nodal classification and eliminate areas of confusion existing in the clinically based classifications.RESULTS. Necks were classified using the imaging-based classification and then compared with the classification of the same necks using the most common clinically based classifications. The imaging-based nodal classifications of th...