CT and MRI findings of basal cell adenoma of the parotid gland

Objective: To study the CT and MRI features of basal cell adenoma of the parotid gland.Methods: CT(n=8) and MRI(n=2) findings of 10 cases with pathologically-proved basal cell adenoma of the parotid gland were retrospectively analyzed.Results: Each of the ten patients had only one lesion.The maximum diameter of tumor was averagely 2.4 cm.Eight tumors presented as round or oval masses without obviously lobular appearance and two as irregular or deeply lobular mass.All the ten tumors had well-defined margin.On T1-weighted MR imaging,the tumors were homogeneously hypointense to the surrounding parotid tissue and isointense to muscle.On T2-weighted imaging,the tumors were homogeneously hyperintense to muscle but slightly hypointense to the surrounding parotid tissue.On enhanced T1-weighted imaging,the two tumors demonstrated obvious homogeneously enhancement.On CT scan,there were 6 solid masses and 2 cystic-solid masses.After contrast administration,the solid component of the lesions showed prominent enhancement.Conclusion: Basal cell adenoma of the parotid gland has its CT and MRI characteristics.Associated with clinic data,CT and MRI are helpful in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of parotid gland basal cell adenoma.