Cysts and cyst-like formations of the mediastum: clinical and radiological manifestations

. Mediastinal cystic formations are well-shaped, often round that contain fluid and lined with epithelium. The main include congenital benign cysts (bronchogenic, duplicating the esophagus, neuroenteric, pericardial thymic cysts), meningocele, mature teratomas lymphangiomas. Many tumors (e.g., thymomas, Hodgkin's disease, germ cell tumors, mediastinal carcinomas, lymph node metastases, nerve root tumors) may undergo degeneration, especially after radiation or chemotherapy, show mixed solid elements on computed tomography (CT) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as well acquire structure of cavity during tumor destruction. If degeneration is extensive, such be virtually indistinguishable from con­genital cysts. However, history visualization anatomical location formation, some details visible CT MRI, allow in many cases to make correct diagnosis. Familiarity radiographic features lesions facilitates accurate diagnosis, differentiation other lesions, thus ensures optimal treatment a patienta.