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Retropharyngeal Lipoma

Findings:
Large mass with homogeneous fat attenuation in the retropharyngeal space extending superiorly from the anterior border of C2 vertebral level and inferiorly up till the anterior border of C3 vertebral body. The lesion measures approximately 5 x 3.8 x 5.8 cm.
Multiple thin wispy soft tissue attenuated septa are seen within the lesion, however, without any enhancing focus.
Anteriorly the lesion is seen displacing the posterior pharyngeal wall, the soft palate and the uvula anteriorly. Consequential narrowing of the oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal airway.

Laterally the lesion extends to border the left styloid process.
There is no associated lymphadenopathy.
The glottic region and the larynx are unremarkable.
Heterogeneous nodule measuring approximately 1.5 cm is seen in the right thyroid lobe. The parotid and submandibular glands are unremarkable.
The cervical and the visualised intracranial vessels are patent.
Minimal mucosal thickening is seen in both maxillary sinuses. Partial obliteration of the mastoid air cells is seen on the right side.
The lung apices are clear.
No bony abnormality is seen. The craniocervical junction and spinal canal appear patent.

Impression:
Large retropharyngeal lipoma narrowing the nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal airway. No sinister pathology.

Updated on 3. May 2024

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About the author

Dr Sara Mohebbi is a Consultant Radiologist (Facharzt für Radiologie) with sub-specialty training in neuroradiology. She served as Chief Resident at University Hospital Freiburg and is a member of the European Society of Radiology (ESR). Her clinical focus includes demyelinating disease, neuro-oncology, and vascular neuroimaging. Dr Mohebbi is the Clinical Lead at Radiology Prime, where she provides independent second opinion reports on brain and spine MRI.