Tumors of the parapharyngeal space.

We retrospectively studied tumors of the parapharyngeal space treated at the Baylor College of Medicine Affiliated Hospital System, Houston, from 1972 to 1985. Of the 42 lesions, 30 (71.4%) were benign and 12 (28.6%) were malignant. Tumors of neurogenic origin were present in 17 (40.5%). Tumors of salivary gland origin were present in 16 (38.1%): ten were benign, six were malignant. Nine (21.4%) of the patients presented with miscellaneous lesions, six of which proved to be malignant. We have found that a preoperative arteriogram is no longer routinely indicated. High-resolution computed tomography is now the best initial diagnostic study because it helps determine the size and extent of the tumor, differentiate tumors of parotid and extraparotid origin, demonstrate degree of tumor vascularity, and separate benign from malignant lesions.