CT is superior to radiography for both determining the presence of mesothelioma and to estimate its extent and invasion of mediastinum, chest wall and upper abdomen what should be done in all patients with suspicion of this tumor. The main findings that suggest this neoplasm include unilateral pleural effusion, nodular pleural thickening and the cisura.
Approximately 20% of cases it is possible to objectify calcified pleural plaques. Often occurs hemithorax volume loss affection with ipsilateral mediastinal shift and elevation of the hemidiaphragm. With local progression, it is rare chest wall invasion, although the irregularity of the interface between wall and is not predictive of tumor invasion. Mesothelioma can invade the pericardium, manifested as irregularity and presence of the same stroke, and vascular structures.
Lung metastases manifesting as masses and nodules, rarely becoming miliary morphology. In 40% of the cases there lymph node metastases at the time of autopsy. Although CT is widely used in the evaluation of mesothelioma, remember that images enlarged lymph node does not necessarily imply that tumor invasion and may underestimate the involvement of the chest wall.
Tags: Chest CT, Cisura, Invasion of Mediastinum, Mesothelioma, Nodular Pleural Thickening, Pleural Mesothelioma, Radiography, Unilateral Pleural Effusion
