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