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Original Research | Radiology and Medical Imaging Sciences | Volume 15 Issue 6, June 2026 | Pages: 7 - 14 | India
Role of Computed Tomography in Diagnosis of Masses in the Visceral Compartment of Mediastinum
Abstract: Introduction: Masses of the visceral compartment of the mediastinum encompass a wide spectrum of pathological entities ranging from benign cysts to aggressive malignancies. Accurate localization, characterization, and assessment of the extent of these lesions are essential for appropriate diagnosis and management. Multidetector Computed Tomography (MDCT) has emerged as the imaging modality of choice due to its high spatial resolution, rapid acquisition, and excellent capability for multiplanar reconstruction. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted over a period of 18 months from October 2023 to March 2025 at a tertiary care center and included 50 patients with suspected visceral mediastinal masses. All patients underwent CT of the thorax using multidetector CT scanner. Imaging findings were analyzed with respect to lesion location, size, morphology, attenuation characteristics, enhancement pattern, and involvement of adjacent structures. Wherever possible, imaging findings were correlated with histopathological diagnosis or clinical follow-up. Results: The study included patients across a wide age range with a slight male predominance. The most common presenting symptoms were cough, dyspnea and chest pain. Lymph nodal masses and malignant lesions constituted a significant proportion of cases, followed by congenital cystic lesions such as bronchogenic and duplication cysts. MDCT accurately localized lesions within the visceral compartment and provided detailed characterization based on attenuation and enhancement patterns. It also effectively demonstrated invasion of adjacent mediastinal structures. Conclusion: MDCT plays a pivotal role in the evaluation of visceral mediastinal masses by providing precise anatomical localization, characterization of lesions, and assessment of extent of disease. It serves as an indispensable tool in guiding diagnosis, management, and further therapeutic planning.
Keywords: ITMIG, Visceral mediastinum, Mediastinal masses, Multidetector CT, Lymphadenopathy, Lymphoma, MDCT
How to Cite?: Dr. Manni Sharma, Dr. Anjana Patel, Dr. Vishva Chauhan, Dr. Ravi S. Patel, "Role of Computed Tomography in Diagnosis of Masses in the Visceral Compartment of Mediastinum", Volume 15 Issue 6, June 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 7-14, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26531230512, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26531230512