CT evaluation of mediastinal masses in children: spectrum of disease with pathologic correlation

The mediastinum is the site of a variety of benign and malignant pathological processes in children. While the chest radiograph may be the initial imaging study to suggest an abnormality, spiral or helical CT provides detailed depiction of anatomic relationships and characteristics of the mass, and may increase the likelihood of a successful examination because of shorter scan times. This article will emphasize the important CT features in the evaluation of common and uncommon mediastinal masses in children. Pathologic correlation is presented for greater understanding. In many clinical settings, CT features such as attenuation, enhancement, calcification, anatomic relationships and extent of disease may suggest a specific diagnosis for a mediastinal mass in a child.