NASOPHARYNX LATERAL VIEW X-RAY SCAN
Also Known As
SENIOR
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FAMILY
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
6hrs
Measures
No description available
Identifies
No identification information available
About The Test
Quick definition
A Nasopharynx Lateral View X-Ray Scan is a side-profile X-ray that captures the space behind the nasal cavity to check for enlarged adenoids, airway narrowing, or masses.
Why patients choose Cadabams
- Digital radiography for crystal-clear images
- Same-day report via SMS/email
- Paediatric sedation room on request
Price range & package options
Package | Price (₹) | Includes |
---|---|---|
Basic Scan | 400 | Digital film, radiologist report |
ENT Combo | 750 | Nasopharynx + Mastoid views |
Paediatric Care | 600 | Distraction toys + faster processing |
What is Nasopharynx Lateral View X-Ray Scan?
Explanation of lateral projection
The patient stands or lies sideways while the X-ray beam passes horizontally, producing a side-view image of the soft palate, adenoids, and posterior choanae (nasal airway openings).
Difference from AP or PA views
- AP/PA (front-to-back) compress tissues, hiding small adenoids.
- Lateral clearly separates the soft palate from the adenoid pad.
Types of Nasopharynx Lateral View X-Ray Scan
Type | Features |
---|---|
Digital Radiography (DR) | Sharpest resolution, instant preview |
Conventional Film | Rare today; longer processing |
Portable Bedside | For ICU patients unable to stand |
CT Lateral Scout | Quick CT preview, higher radiation |
List of Parameters
- A/N ratio (Adenoid-to-Nasopharynx ratio): >0.8 suggests obstruction
- Soft-palate thickness: Check for oedema or mass effect
- Airway patency: Minimal gap <5 mm raises concern
Why This Test
- Suspected adenoid hypertrophy causing sleep disturbance
- Chronic mouth breathing affecting facial growth in kids
- First-line screening for sleep apnoea
When to Take Test
Signs & symptoms prompting the scan
- Persistent mouth breathing
- Loud snoring or sleep apnoea
- Recurrent ear infections
- Speech changes (“nasal” voice)
Age groups most affected
- Children (2–10 yrs): Adenoid hypertrophy peaks.
- Adults: Suspected nasopharyngeal mass.
Referral by ENT specialists
ENT doctors request this scan before recommending adenoidectomy or CPAP therapy.
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Nasopharynx Lateral View X-Ray Scan
- Non-invasive & painless (5 minutes)
- Lower cost than CT/MRI—save up to 75 %
- Minimal wait—walk-in slots available till 8 p.m. at Cadabams
Illnesses Diagnosed with Nasopharynx Lateral View X-Ray Scan
Condition | Typical X-Ray Finding |
---|---|
Adenoid hypertrophy | Enlarged adenoid shadow narrowing airway |
Nasopharyngeal mass | Soft-tissue bulge with bone remodeling |
Choanal atresia | Absent air column in posterior choanae |
Preparing for test
- Remove jewellery, hairpins, hearing aids
- Wear front-opening clothes; hospital gown provided if needed
- Child-friendly tips: Bring favourite toy; distraction videos on iPad available
Pre-requisites for Nasopharynx Lateral View X-Ray Scan
- Valid doctor’s prescription
- Pregnancy status form (women 12–55 yrs)
- Upload previous imaging on Cadabams portal for comparison
Best Time to Take the Nasopharynx Lateral View X-Ray Scan
- Morning slots (8–10 a.m.) ideal for toddlers—less cranky
- Avoid during acute cold/flu—mucosal swelling can mimic obstruction
Eligibility
- Age: New-borns to elderly
- Weight limit: Up to 200 kg (digital upright unit)
- Pregnancy: Deferred unless urgent; shielding provided
Procedure for Taking a Nasopharynx Lateral View X-Ray Scan
- Registration at Cadabams front desk
- Change into gown & remove metal objects
- Positioning:
- Standing (≥3 yrs): Chin up, shoulders against cassette
- Supine (infants): Parent holds arms; head immobilised
- Exposure: <0.3 seconds
- Instant preview; repeat only if motion blur
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Inform technologist if pregnant
- Remove dentures, nose studs
- Stay still—a second scan doubles radiation
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
Parameter | Normal Range | Borderline | Obstruction |
---|---|---|---|
A/N ratio | <0.6 | 0.6–0.79 | ≥0.8 |
Soft palate | ≤10 mm | 11–12 mm | >12 mm |
Airway gap | ≥8 mm | 5–7 mm | <5 mm |
Risks & Limitations
- Radiation dose: ≈0.04 mSv (equal to 4 days of natural background).
- Contraindications: pregnancy, uncontrolled head movement (infirmity).
- Image limits: May miss small soft-tissue masses—CT advised if unclear.
FAQs
How long does the scan take?
About five minutes—from positioning to printout.
Is the scan painful or uncomfortable?
No. You only need to keep still for a few seconds.
Can I eat before the X-ray?
Yes. Fasting is not required.
Will I get the report the same day?
Absolutely. Same-day digital report plus optional WhatsApp copy.
What if my child cannot stay still?
Trained paediatric technologists use gentle restraint and distraction techniques.
Is radiation exposure safe for kids?
Yes. The dose is <0.04 mSv, equivalent to a short plane ride.