Introduction: Parapharyngeal space is one of potential fascial planes of head and neck, that may become involved by various pathological processes. The aim of study was to establish diagnostic value of MRI for detection, characterization and localization of parapharyngeal masses and correlating these with histopathological findings which will be of great help for surgeon to adopt right choice of surgical approach and non operative management by superior diagnostic value of MRI and minimize surgical morbidity, as well as risk of surgical recurrence.

Materials and Methods: The study was conducted for this purpose in 30 patients from all age groups, of either sex, having parapharyngeal masses suspected clinically or ultrasonographically. 

Results: The MRI findings positively correlated with histopathology and has superior diagnostic value for detection, characterization and localization of parapharyngeal masses. Out of total 30 patients, 16.67% had origin primarily from paraphayngeal space and 50% had secondary extension to parapharyngeal space. Rest 33.34% had no extension to parapharngeal space. Male have more incidence as 20 male and 10 female. Male have maximum incidence in 5^th decade of life while female have almost equal incidence in 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th decade. Most common presenting complain was neck swelling and parotid gland (70%) was most common involved.

Conclusions: MRI almost correctly differentiated all benign and malignant lesions and almost correctly characterized all lesions and excellent regarding tissue content and was in agreement with the histopathological diagnosis.

Keywords: Parapharyngeal space, Masses, Magnetic resonance imaging, Histopathological, Correlation.

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Dr Rajendra Kumar Choudhary

Assistant Professor, Dept of Radiodiagnosis Dr S N Medical College Jodhpur India