RETURN TO ABSTRACT LISTING


Background
Historically, there has been confusion regarding appropriate nomenclature of vascular lesions of the head and neck. Although these lesions are rare, appropriate treatment depends on correct classification and diagnosis of these lesions. Therefore, radiologists should be familiar with the imaging features across multiple modalities and clinical presentation of these vascular anomalies. The ISSVA combined the proposed classification systems by Mulliken and Glowacki and Jackson et al into a widely used classification system that we now use today.

Educational Goals / Teaching Points
The purpose of this exhibit is to review common vascular lesions of the head and neck using the most recent ISSVA classification system with emphasis on clinical presentation and key imaging features.

Key Anatomic/Physiologic Issues and Imaging Findings/Techniques
Vascular tumors are differentiated from vascular malformations by their pathogenesis. Vascular tumors are defects in proliferation whereas vascular malformations are defects in morphogenesis. Vascular tumors are further classified based on their cellular behavior as benign, borderline, and malignant. Vascular malformations arise from quiescent, dysplastic endothelial cells in the arterial, capillary, venous, or lymphatic system and can be further categorized by their flow dynamics. Finally, vascular malformations can be composed to multiple different simple malformations and associated with syndromes. We will present common vascular tumors and malformations using imaging examples across different modalities to illustrate the key characteristics of each lesion.

Conclusion
Appropriate classification and diagnoses of head and neck vascular lesions is important to guide correct treatment. This presentation will help radiologists review the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and key imaging features.