pulmonary disorders
Mediastinal Masses
Key Points
In adults, thymomas and lymphomas (both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin) are the most common anterior lesions, lymph node enlargement and vascular masses are the most common middle lesions, and neurogenic tumors and esophageal abnormalities are the most common posterior lesions. In children, the most common mediastinal masses are neurogenic tumors and cysts. The most common symptoms are chest pain and weight loss, but many masses are asymptomatic. Obstructive respiratory symptoms and systemic symptoms can occur in children and rarely in adults. CT with IV contrast is the most valuable imaging technique. Treatment depends on the etiology of the mass. 