Fig. 2

Normal MRI anatomy of the oropharynx. Axial T2-weighted image shows the palatine tonsils (white asterisk) bounded laterally by the superior constrictor muscle (arrow), anteriorly by the palatoglossus muscle (dashed arrow), and posteriorly by the palatopharyngeus muscle (dotted arrow). Posterolateral to the superior constrictor muscle and the buccopharyngeal fascia is the parapharyngeal space indicated by fat signal (black asterisk). The medial pterygoid muscle (double white asterisk) and the parotid gland (hash) can be seen in the masticator and parotid spaces, respectively