XR - NASOPHARYNX LATERAL VIEW

Nasopharynx Lateral View X-ray Overview

A nasopharynx lateral view x-ray, also called a lateral skull x-ray, is a kind of radiology test that captures images of the nasopharynx- the upper part of the throat posterior to the nose- with the use of low radiation. This test is often used to diagnose and follow up conditions of the nasopharynx such as infections, tumours, as well as abnormal anatomy. Patients may be asked to remove glasses or jewellery that can interfere with the x-ray images during the preparation of the examination.  

What is a Nasopharynx Lateral view x-ray? 

A nasopharynx lateral view x-ray is an imaging procedure of the nasopharynx made with an x-ray machine. During the examination, the x-ray machine sends x-rays through the head, while the images produced are recorded on film or a digital detector. The test detects variations of density of the various tissues and other structural components forming the head, thus enabling imaging of the nasopharynx. 

Types of Nasopharynx Lateral View X-rays 

Different groups of Nasopharynx Lateral View X-rays exist, such as: 

• Simple x-ray: This is the simplest and the most frequently done examination that captures images of the nasopharynx using an x-ray machine.  

• X-ray with contrast: This examination uses a contrast dye for highlighting nonspecific structures or other abnormal changes within the nasopharynx. 

List of Parameters Considered During the Nasopharynx Lateral View X-ray:

During this procedure, specialists take note of the following factors:  

• The degree of rotation and tilt of the nasal septum. 

• The dimensions and contour of the nasopharynx cavity.  

• Presence of any lesions or pathological changes in the nasopharyngeal region. 

• Status of the sinuses and nose. 

Reasons for Taking a Nasopharynx Lateral View X-ray:

A Nasopharynx Lateral View X-ray is usually performed for the following objectives: 

• To identify and assess the infections and tumours within the nasopharynx region. 

• To study the configuration of the nasopharyngeal region and its relationship with other regions. 

• To assess response to therapy for lesions of the nasopharynx. 

When and Who Needs to Take a Nasopharynx Lateral View X-ray? 

A physician may advise for a Nasopharynx Lateral View X-ray examination to be conducted for patients who report manifests such as:  

• Difficulty with breathing through the nose 
• Inflammation of the sinuses, or sinusitis 
• Uncomfortable feeling in the throat or pain while attempting to swallow, in the case of my throat 
• Pain in the ears or associated with hearing 
• Development of a painful lump or seeing within the neck or above the collar bone region  

An exam is done on patients that already have undergone medical treatment or have signs and symptoms suggesting a pathological process involving the region of nasopharynx like:  

• Carcinoma of nasopharynx (cancer of the nasopharynx)  
• Adenoidal or tonsillar hypertrophy  
• sinus related or sinus infection  
• deformities of internal parts such as deviated nasal septum  

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

• Fast and simple procedure. 

• Minimal exposure to radiation. 

• Clear images of the nasopharynx and tissues around it. 

• Detect and track disorders related to the nasopharynx region. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with a Nasopharynx Lateral View X-ray

A Nasopharynx Lateral View X-ray can reveal different forms of diseases such as: 

• Carcinoma of the nasopharynx (certain type of malignancy).  
• Adenoids or tonsillar inflammation. 
• Inflammation of the sinuses or nasal cavities. 
• Disorders of body structures like a deviated septum 

Guidelines for Preparation in Nasopharynx Lateral View X-ray

Patients should follow these guidelines before the examination: 

• Take off glasses and jewelry that may be obstructive to the x-ray photographs.  
• Refrain from eating or drinking liquids a few hours prior to the examination.  
• Update the doctor about current medications and allergies, if any. 

Pre- requisites 

There are no defined pre-requisites for a Nasopharynx Lateral View X-ray, patients should: 

• Give relevant details of their medical history and current complaints.  
• Take out any dental aids like dentures or retainers before taking the examination. 

Best Time to Take the Test 

As the examination can be performed at any time, it would be advisable to have the examination done when the patient is feeling better and is not having any acute symptoms.  

Frequency of Testing: 

The examination is ordinarily suggested in the case of patients who are assumed to be having some sort of disease pertaining to the nasopharynx. Nevertheless, the test may be contraindicated in certain pregnant women, as well as patients with allergies or other medical conditions. 

Procedure for Taking a Nasopharynx Lateral View X-ray: 

Nasopharynx Lateral View X-ray has its own procedure to perfectly follow. They include: 

• Positioning of the patient in front of the x-ray machine 

• Moving of the x-ray machine to prescribed height and place 

• Keeping of the patient in a non-moving position. 

• The x-ray machine rotates around the head and x-ray pictures are taken through the film or digital receptor. 

• This process lasts a couple of minutes. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

As for the shortcomings, the patient must state to the doctor the following prior to the exam:  

• Any drugs currently being used by the patient or any other known allergies. 

• Certain health problems the patient might be dealing with such as: Pregnancy or kidney problems.  

• Any jewellery or dental appliances that could be mistaken for x-ray images.