Cavum radio: how is it going, why?

The cavum is the upper and aerial part of the pharynx, it is located behind the nasal cavities. The radiography of the cavum in profile makes it possible to visualize the vegetations and thus to diagnose ENT pathologies such as the hypertrophy of the adenoidstracheal stenoses or nasopharyngeal obstructions. Why do an x-ray of the cavum ? How’s it going ? For who ? How to interpret x-ray results ? Point.

Indications: why do an x-ray of the cavum?

The cavum is also known as nasopharynx or nasopharynx. It designates the upper part of the palate, just behind the nasal cavities. “The radiograph of the cavum is x-ray imaging performed most often in children, but also sometimes in adults, to visualize the airways and soft tissues. It makes it possible to diagnose an ENT pathology such as a enlarged adenoids or various nasopharyngeal obstacles“, explains Dr. Sylvain Breton, radiologist at the Center de radiologie Imagerie 114.

No preparation is necessary for the realization of the X-ray of the cavum. X-ray is taken in profile, closed mouth. The patient must then no longer move for the duration of the imaging, which only lasts a few seconds. Sometimes you need to hold your breath for a few seconds.

This X-ray allows visualize the airway of the nasopharynx. “This can be narrowed just behind the nasal cavities by hypertrophy of the lymphatic tissues at the level of the ENT mucosa, these are for example the adenoids”. says Dr. Breton.

What is a normal cavum x-ray?

“This X-ray is considered normal when the caliber of this air channel of the nasopharynx is respected and regular, without any obstacle to air circulation during breathing.n”, specifies the radiologist.

What are the contraindications of an x-ray of the cavum?

Like any examination using X-rays, the pregnancy is a single contraindication to this examination.

Thanks to Dr. Sylvain Breton, radiologist at the Center de radiologie Imagerie 114.