Computed tomographic evaluation of the retrocrural prevertebral space

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Anatomy

Background:

• The retrocrural space contains various anatomical structures.
• Distinguishing between normal and abnormal structures is crucial for diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if retrocrural structures identified on computed tomography (CT) scans correlate with abdominal adenopathy.
• To establish size criteria for differentiating enlarged lymph nodes from normal structures.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of abdominal CT scans from 151 patients.
• Analysis of retrocrural structures' size and presence of associated adenopathy.
• Correlation with clinical, CT, biopsy, and lymphangiographic findings.

Main Results:

• Discrete retrocrural structures >6 mm were found in 39 patients, 37 of whom had evidence of middle/upper abdominal paraaortic adenopathy.
• Structures <6 mm were present in 112 patients; only 3 had lower abdominal adenopathy.

Conclusions:

• Discrete retrocrural structures >6 mm on CT scans are indicative of enlarged lymph nodes and associated adenopathy.
• Smaller retrocrural structures likely represent normal lymphatic tissue or azygous veins.