CT of intrathoracic neurogenic tumours

Fifteen patients with primary intrathoracic neurogenic tumours were evaluated using computed tomography (CT) scans. Schwannomas were demonstrated as homogeneous or slightly inhomogeneous densities on plain CT images; 4 of 5 schwannomas showed rim enhancement with some enhancement in the central portion of the tumour on post-enhancement CT images. Neurofibromas and ganglioneuromas were visualized as homogeneous densities on plain CT images. Three of 5 ganglioneuromas revealed homogeneous contrast enhancement of post-contrast CT images. A ganglioneuroblastoma and 2 neuroblastomas manifested slightly inhomogeneous tumour density on plain CT images. The inhomogeneity of the tumours was accentuated on contrast enhancement CT images.