Perinatal thoracic mass Lesions: Pre and postnatal imaging

Publication date: Available online 27 May 2015 Source:Seminars in Ultrasound, CT and MRI Author(s): Evan J. Zucker , Monica Epelman , Beverley Newman Chest masses present a common problem in the perinatal period. Advances in prenatal ultrasound, supplemented by fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), now allow early detection and detailed characterization of many thoracic lesions in utero. As such, in asymptomatic infants, assessment with postnatal computed tomography (CT) or MRI can often be delayed for several months until the time that surgery is being contemplated. Bronchopulmonary malformations (BPMs) comprise the majority of thoracic masses encountered in clinical practice. However, a variety other pathologies can mimic their appearances and/or produce similar effects such as hypoplasia of one or both lungs. Understanding of the key differentiating clinical and imaging features can assist in optimizing prognostication and timely management.
Source: Seminars in Ultrasound, CT and MRI - Category: Radiology Source Type: research