Retropharyngeal carotid arteries - kissing carotids

Case contributed by Ammar Haouimi
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Pulsatile sensation at the oropharyngeal region.

Patient Data

Age: 70 years
Gender: Female

Aberrant course of both common carotid arteries as well as the right internal and left external carotid arteries, located in the retropharyngeal space, medially displaced towards the midline "Kissing carotids".

Case Discussion

CT angiogrphy of an aberrant course of the carotid arteries medially displaced in the retropharyngeal space "kissing carotids".

Kissing carotids is an anatomical variant and refers to tortuous and elongated carotid arteries which touch in the midline. It must be mentioned in the radiological report especially if there is indication for transsphenoidal or retropharyngeal surgery to ovoid iatrogenic vascular injury.  

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