[Computer tomographic differentiation of lymph nodes in the retroperitoneum and lower mediastinum, with special reference to normal anatomic structures].

Ct assessment of the lymphatic system in the area of the retroperitoneum and the lower mediastinum had so far been limited to pathologically enlarged lymphatic nodes of more than 2 cm diameter. Improvements in apparatus construction and increased clinical experience have made it possible to include lymphatic nodes of smaller size, although it is often difficult to distinguish them clearly from the other formations in those regions. The following article deals with the structures recognisable via CT, such as arteries, veins, lymphatic chains and crura of the diaphragm, systematically and by means of relevant illustrations. The possibilities of identifying these structures by means of a suitable examination technique are discussed.