Pancreatic pseudocyst of the mediastinum

The mediassinum is a relatively uncommon site for a pancreatic pseudocyst. Two such cases are presented, along with a review of 14 additional cases from the English literature. In most cases the pseudocyst is located in the posterior mediastinum, with entry to the mediastinum via the aortic or esophageal hiatus. The most common presenting symptoms are chest or abdominal pain and dyspnea. Displacement of the esophagus and stomach anteriorly and to the left on the upper gastrointestinal series and an associated mediastinal mass are the most helpful radiographic manifestations.