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Pseudotumoral paraesophageal varices
K K Lau1, G Phillips, A McKenzie
1Department of Radiology, Repatriation General Hospital, Victoria, Australia.
Gastrointestinal Radiology
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Paraesophageal varices can mimic posterior mediastinal masses in patients with portal hypertension. This case highlights their presence even after treatment for esophageal varices.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Portal hypertension is a common complication of liver disease.
- Esophageal varices are a known complication of portal hypertension.
- Paraesophageal varices are less common but can occur.
Observation:
- A patient with long-standing portal hypertension presented with a posterior mediastinal mass.
- Endoscopic evaluation showed no evidence of recurrent submucosal esophageal varices.
- Imaging revealed the mass to be paraesophageal varices.
Findings:
- Paraesophageal varices can present as a posterior mediastinal mass.
- These collaterals may persist or develop despite treatment for esophageal varices.
- Diagnosis requires a combination of imaging and clinical history.
Implications:
- This presentation can lead to misdiagnosis if not considered.
- Awareness of this rare presentation is crucial for clinicians.
- Further investigation may be needed for unexplained mediastinal masses in patients with portal hypertension.