investigations

Last reviewed 01/2018

Over 50% of mediastinal masses are detected as incidental findings on a chest X-ray. Further information necessary for management may be obtained from:

• CT scan - axial imaging only
• barium swallow - if oesophageal disease is suspected
• doppler sonography or venography of brachiocephalic veins or superior vena cava
• arteriography
• MRI - when results of CT scan are equivocal; advantages over CT:
• distinguishes vessels and masses
• contrast media unnecessary
• imaging in multiple planes
• good delineation of hilar structures
• biopsy - if suspected neoplasm