Current concepts in computerized tomography of the mediastinum.

Computed tomography (CT) has dramatically changed the imaging approach to the mediastinum. CT can depict precise cross-sectional mediastinal anatomic detail defining fat, water, and near muscle density tissues. Not only diagnosis but staging of some disease processes is now possible. The key to understanding the mediastinum is a sound knowledge of normal mediastinal anatomy and the potential disease processes which may affect the mediastinum. Normal CT mediastinal anatomy is illustrated and discussed. Pathological processes involving the thymus, lymphatics, endocrine systems, and great vessels are emphasized describing their clinical presentations, appearance, and the techniques of examination.