A practical imaging approach to petrous apex lesions

Purpose: The spectrum of petrous apex lesions is broad. A practical imaging approach to the diagnosis of these diverse lesions is presented. Methods: The imaging case archives were retrospectively reviewed to identify specific characteristic imaging features of petrous apex lesions. Results: Characteristic imaging features of petrous lesions are identified. Directed evaluation of lesion center, local extent, relation to surrounding structures, and density (on computed tomography) or signal intensity (on magnetic resonance imaging) will facilitate reaching the appropriate diagnosis. Conclusion: Imaging is an essential adjunct to the clinical evaluation of petrous apex lesions. Careful consideration of specific imaging features permits a short, tailored differential diagnosis list.