Multi-Detector Computed Tomography for Evaluating Characteristics, Distribution and Extension of Mediastinal Masses

Background: The area in the thorax between the lungs is Mediastinum which is surrounded above by thoracic inlet, in front by sternum, below by diaphragm, back by vertebral column laterally by pleura of both lungs. Multiple classification systems are used by doctors. Shields classification system is most commonly used, however the conventional Fraser and Paré, Felson, and other categorization are in daily use in radiology. The present schemes used in practice of radiology is more of nonanatomic divisions based primarily on the chest radiograph. So a typical classification based on multi detector CT is demanded to describe mediastinum and make to the purpose differential diagnoses. This study aims to assess characteristics, distribution and extension of Mediastinal masses by MDCT and correlate the histopathological diagnosis to CT scan findings.

Methodology: This will be a prospective study conducted at AVBRH, Wardha. Total 100 patients with Mediastinal Masses diagnosed clinically and on Chest X ray will be enrolled in the study. Contrast CT scan of all patients will be done. Histopathology reports of masses (FNAC/Biopsy) will be collected.

Results: Significant accuracy of mediastinal CT in diagnosing the mediastinal masses and a significant corelation to FNAC/biopsy reports is expected.

Conclusion: MDCT will prove to be an useful evaluation method for diagnosis and classification of mediastinal masses.