Nodes or no nodes: CT of adenopathy

Computed tomography (CT) is the diagnostic modality of choice in the staging of abdominal malignancies. Metastatic disease in the lymph nodes is defined on CT as nodal enlargement. The presence of enlarged nodes does not preclude inflammatory involvement. There are clues that will indicate whether enlarged nodes are malignant or not (i.e., associated bony destruction). This paper will delineate normal nodal anatomy of the abdomen and pelvis. Clinical examples will be used to demonstrate normal structures simulating adenopathy and malignant adenopathy will be illustrated in lymphoma, seminoma, carcinoma of the cervix, prostate, and other pelvic malignancies.