Clinical value of CT scan in diagnosing nasal malignant lymphoma (a report of 11 cases)

Objective To investigate the value of CT in diagnosing nasal malignant lymphoma. Methods CT findings of 11 patients with nasal malignant lymphoma proved pathologically were reviewed retrospectively. Results The lesions pathologically diagnosed were all NHL and 9 cases were peripheral T cell lymphoma. CT scan showed: (1)Lesions arose mainly from nasal vestibule or anterior part of nasal cavity,consisting of rease hyperplasia type 2 cases, infiltration type 3 cases, and hyperplasia infiltration (mixed) type 6 cases. (2)Density of mass of hyperplasia type was relatively homogeneous, presenting as isodensity or slight hyperdensity,while infiltration and mixed type appeared inhomogeneous.(3)Slight bony erosion was found in 8 cases,characterized by “mouse nibbled” or cribriform bony absorption.(4)Adjacent structures were usually involved,and lesions might be polycentric.(5)Lesions often shrank or disappeared after radiotherapy. Conclusion CT findings of nasal malignant lymphoma are relatively characteristic. It can clearly demonstrate the extent of lesion.