In this study, we have evaluated the imaging features of Warthin's tumor of the parotid gland with the use of CT and MR imaging.

CT (n = 30) and MR (n = 7) images of 26 patients (M:F=23:3; age range, 38-76 years; mean age, 58 years) with surgically-proven Warthin's tumor (n = 37) were reviewed with a focus on bilaterality, multiplicity, location, size, demarcation, margin, enhancement pattern and MR signal intensity.

Lesions were bilateral in seven patients (27%), multiple in nine patients (35%) and unilateral multiple in four patients (15%). Tumors were located in the superficial lobe (65%), deep lobe (24%) and both lobes (11%) of the parotid gland. Most tumors had a clear (95%) and smooth margin (95%) with a round or oval shape. Tumors mainly showed a solid and cystic composition (n = 24, 65%) and all solid stroma showed poor or weak enhancement on both CT and MR images. Papillary projections from the peripheral wall were clearly seen (n = 6, 86%).

Warthin's tumor is frequently seen in the parotid superficial lobe of older males with a higher bilateral and multiple tendency. Warthin's tumor shows cystic portions with papillary projections at the wall on CT images and focal high signal intensity (SI) on T1-weighted images with dense nodular enhancement on MR images.