The computed tomographic (CT) features of pineal region tumors were analyzed in 60 histologically proven tumors. This is the largest reported series of histologically verified pineal region tumors studied with CT. The tumors were classified as germ-cell tumors, glial tumors, pineal parenchymal tumors, and meningiomas. Preenhancement germinomas revealed characteristically high-density areas with calcification; uniform enhancement was seen after injection of contrast material. When present, pineal calcification was engulfed by the tumor. Teratomas, present only in male patients, revealed areas of mixed densities (e.g., calcification and fatty areas) and did not show significant contrast enhancement. Spontaneous intraventricular rupture was noted in one case. Unlike other tumors, the original pineal calcification could be recognized in two-thirds of glioma cases and was displaced anteriorly and superiorly in most. Gliomas were hypodense to isodense on precontrast scans and enhanced in a nodular and a ring fashion. Benign pineal parenchymal tumors showed iso- to hyperdense areas with nodular enhancement after injection of contrast material. Pineoblastomas were well defined hyperdense masses without calcification on precontrast scans. After injection of contrast material, they showed well defined enhancement with occasional small, central lucencies. Meningiomas were hyperdense in most cases, uniformly enhanced in a homogeneous fashion, and showed a tentorial attachment.

The normal computed tomographic anatomy of the nasopharynx and pterygopalatine and infratemporal fossae is analyzed. Particular attention is given to the distinction between deglutitional and masticatory muscles. The relations of the palatal muscles to the eustachian tube are described in detail. Those soft-tissue features that, when they deviate from normal, can provide early detection of nasopharyngeal lesions are emphasized.

The current management of decubitus ulcers, factors in wound healing and the role of enzymes in treatment are discussed. The therapeutic benefits of collagenase (Santyl) ointment in 21 patients are described, supplemented by serial color photographs. Statistical evidence is provided for the conclusion that collagenase ointment is an excellent adjunct to therapy.

Malignant tumors of the nasopharynx were analyzed by region of origin and route of spread. Nasopharyngeal carcinomas produced early submucosal infiltration of the deglutitional muscle layer with enlargement of the levator palati muscle and lateral displacement of the parapharyngeal space. Serous otitis media was frequently associated, and the trigeminal nerve was occasionally involved. Intracranial extension via the foramen lacerum was frequent. Metastases to the infratemporal fossa produced early involvement of the masticatory muscle layer with medial displacement of the parapharyngeal space. Adenoid cystic carcinomas showed late but disproportionate involvement of the sphenoid sinus. Chordomas extended into the retropharyngeal soft tissues via the petro-occipital fissure. Maxillary sinus carcinomas, which were very large at the time of presentation and impinged on the nasopharynx, showed extensive destruction of the pterygoid plates.

The carotid space, parapharyngeal space, and paraspinal space are described. The carotid space is shown on computed tomography (CT) to be posterior to the parapharyngeal space and separated from it by the styloid apparatus. The paraspinal space is posterior to the carotid space and separated from it by the longus and anterior scalene muscles.