Roentgen recognition of enlarged hilar lymph nodes: an anatomical review

A new anatomical classification of the hilar lymph nodes, and their usual roentgen distribution, is presented, along with the most appropriate radiographic techniques for their demonstration. The characteristic roentgen appearances of enlarged hilar lymph nodes in various locations are correlated with the differential diagnoses. The appearance of a rounded lobulated mass is the typical radiographic finding of total hilar enlargement. The diagnosis of hilar nodal enlargement is best made from lateral body section radiographs.