[Parapharyngeal space lesions: with a reference to biopsy].

We received seven cases of parapharyngeal space lesions and discussed on necessity of biopsy. Tumors originating in the parapharyngeal space were represented by parotid pleomorphic adenomas which showed bulging of soft palate and tonsillar fossa, and benign neurogenic tumors which showed bulging of the lateral wall of the meso-pharynx. In these cases, preoperative biopsy was not necessary unless the lesion was suspected, of malignancy by CT, MRI and so on. In the case of bulging of soft palate and tonsillar fossa, if CT or MRI finding shows that the tumor is localized in the median portion of the parapharyngeal space and is separated from greater vessels and nerves existing in the parapharyngeal space, therapeutic protocol might be planned after an establishment of histological diagnosis with biopsy. In the case of a bulging lateral wall of the meso-pharynx with a history of malignant neoplasm of the head and neck, lymph node metastasis should be thought about.