Imaging of the Oral Cavity and Oropharynx

The oral cavity is the most anterior portion of the aerodigestive tract with various subsites and pathologies. The oropharynx lies posteriorly to the oral cavity up to the level of the hyoid bone. The purpose of this chapter is to illustrate oral cavity and oropharynx anatomy and associated pathologies. Lymph node stations around the oral cavity and oropharynx are also discussed. Key imaging features of different oral cavity and oropharynx pathologies will be demonstrated, including infectious/inflammatory causes including dental abscess, adenoiditis, tonsillitis, peritonsillar abscess, retropharyngeal abscess, and suppurative lymph nodes. The most common neoplastic process is squamous cell carcinoma in the oral cavity and oropharynx. Other salivary gland tumors are also included. Vascular abnormalities (e.g., venous malformation, lymphatic malformation, and hemangioma) can also occur in the oral cavity, which will also be discussed. Congenital lesions involving the oral cavity and oropharynx also be discussed including dermoid/epidermoid, and thyroglossal duct cysts. Lastly, trauma involving the mandible is highlighted.