XR - NASOPHARYNX LATERAL VIEW

A soft tissue neck x-ray is a specific type of diagnostic imaging that focuses on the side view (lateral view) of the neck. Unlike x-rays that look at bones, this test is optimized to visualize soft structures like the adenoids, tonsils, and the airway passage behind the nose, known as the nasopharynx.

By capturing a clear profile image, the lateral neck x-ray for adenoids allows a radiologist to accurately measure the size of the adenoid tissue and see how much it obstructs the airway. This information is vital for diagnosing a condition called adenoid hypertrophy, or enlarged adenoids.

Types of Soft Tissue Neck X-ray

For the purpose of assessing adenoid size, the Lateral View is the standard and most informative view. This side-view image provides the clearest profile of the adenoid pad and its relationship to the nasopharyngeal airway.

In some cases, a doctor might request an Anteroposterior (AP) view, which is an image taken from the front. However, this is less common for evaluating adenoids and is typically used to assess other structures in the neck.

When our radiologist at Cadabams Diagnostics examines the images, they analyze several key parameters to provide a comprehensive report for your doctor:

• Adenoid Size: The radiologist assesses the bulk and thickness of the adenoid tissue. This is often graded to indicate severity.
• Nasopharyngeal Airway Patency: This refers to how open or blocked the airway behind the nose is. The report will note the degree of narrowing caused by the adenoid tissue.
• Adenoidal-Nasopharyngeal (A/N) Ratio: This is a specific measurement that compares the thickness of the adenoids to the depth of the nasopharynx, providing an objective assessment of blockage.
• Condition of Surrounding Soft Tissues: The image is also reviewed for any other abnormalities in the nearby soft tissues of the neck and upper airway.

Doctors don't order tests without a good reason. An x-ray for enlarged adenoids is typically prompted by a distinct set of symptoms that point towards upper airway obstruction. These include:

• Persistent Nasal Congestion: A constantly "stuffed up" nose that makes breathing difficult.
• Chronic Mouth Breathing: Leads to dry mouth, sore throats, and sometimes dental issues.
• Loud Snoring or Sleep Apnea: Pauses in breathing during sleep can be a serious health concern that needs investigation.
• Recurrent Ear or Sinus Infections: Enlarged adenoids can block the Eustachian tubes and sinus drainage pathways, leading to chronic infections.
• "Adenoid Facies": In long-standing cases, children may develop a characteristic facial appearance with an open mouth, flattened mid-face, and tired expression.

When and Who Needs to Take a Soft Tissue Neck X-ray?

This test is most frequently ordered for children, as enlarged adenoids are a common pediatric issue. Your doctor might recommend a soft tissue neck x-ray if you or your child present with symptoms such as:

• Chronic Nasal Obstruction: Constant stuffiness that doesn't clear up with cold or allergy medicine.
• Persistent Mouth Breathing: Especially noticeable at night but can occur during the day.
• Sleep-Disordered Breathing: This includes loud, habitual snoring, gasping, or pauses in breathing during sleep (sleep apnea).
• Recurrent Infections: Frequent ear infections (otitis media) or sinus infections.

Individuals suspected of having adenoid hypertrophy are the primary candidates for this test, as it provides clear visual evidence to confirm the diagnosis.

Reasons why a Nasopharynx Lateral View X-ray could be performed are,

Choosing to proceed with an adenoid x-ray offers several clear advantages for both patients and doctors.

• Fast and Simple: The entire procedure at Cadabams Diagnostics is completed in just a few minutes.
• Non-Invasive: There are no needles, scopes, or instruments that enter the body. It is a completely external and painless test.
• Cost-Effective: Compared to more advanced imaging, an x-ray is an inexpensive and highly effective first-line tool for diagnosis.
• Clear Diagnosis: The x-ray provides definitive visual evidence of enlarged adenoids. This clarity helps your doctor confirm the diagnosis and confidently recommend the next steps, whether it's medical management or a referral for surgery.

Is your child struggling with chronic snoring or mouth breathing? An adenoid x-ray can provide the answers you need. Schedule your appointment at Cadabams Diagnostics today.

Illnesses Diagnosed with a Nasopharynx Lateral View X-ray

The primary condition diagnosed with this test is Adenoid Hypertrophy (Enlarged Adenoids).

The x-ray confirms the diagnosis, assesses the severity, and helps explain the patient's symptoms. Additionally, while its main purpose is to visualize the adenoids, it can also help rule out other, less common structural causes of upper airway obstruction in the nasopharynx. Learning more about the symptoms and treatment for this condition can be helpful.

One of the great benefits of this test is that it requires almost no special preparation.

• No fasting is required. Your child can eat and drink normally before the appointment.
• You will be asked to remove any metal objects from the head and neck area, such as necklaces, chains, and earrings, as they can interfere with the image.
• For children, it’s helpful to explain that they will just need to stand or sit very still for a few seconds, like they are having their picture taken. Our staff at Cadabams Diagnostics are experienced in working with children to ensure they feel comfortable and safe.

Pre-requisites

A doctor's referral or prescription is typically required to undergo a soft tissue neck x-ray. Please bring your referral form with you to your appointment.

Best Time to Take the Test

There is no "best time" for this x-ray. It can be performed at any time of day that is convenient for you. It is often available as a walk-in procedure at our diagnostic centers, provided you have a referral.

Eligibility

The test is suitable and safe for patients of all ages, from infants to adults. However, as with all x-ray procedures, caution is advised for patients who are or may be pregnant.

Procedure for Taking a Nasopharynx X-ray

Understanding the nasopharynx x-ray procedure can help ease any anxiety for you or your child. The process is simple and quick.

• Step 1: Positioning: The patient will be asked to stand or sit next to the x-ray machine. Our technologist will gently position their head to get the correct side view. They will be asked to look straight ahead with their mouth closed.
• Step 2: Protection: A lead apron may be placed over the patient's chest, abdomen, and lap. This is a standard safety measure to protect the rest of the body from radiation exposure.
• Step 3: Capturing the Image: The technologist will step behind a protective screen and ask the patient to hold very still and hold their breath for just a few seconds. The image is captured during this brief moment.
• Step 4: Completion: That's it! The entire process within the x-ray room usually takes less than five minutes. The procedure is completely painless.

Caution Before Taking the Test

It is absolutely crucial to inform the technologist if the patient is or thinks they might be pregnant. While the radiation dose is low, x-rays are generally avoided during pregnancy unless medically essential.