Carcinoma of the hypopharynx: CT staging.

The CT examinations of 42 patients with carcinoma of the hypopharynx were analyzed. Tumor site of origin and detailed patterns of extent and spread were noted and a T and N classification attempted. The results were compared to findings achieved by palpation, mirror examination, laryngoscopy, and hypopharyngoscopy. Computed tomography yielded valuable information concerning submucous tumor extension and cartilage involvement. The additional information obtained by CT led to upstaging 29% of the cases to a higher T level and 36% of the cases to a higher N level.