Primary intrathoracic malignant mesenchymal tumors: pictorial essay

J Thorac Imaging. 1994 Summer;9(3):148-55. doi: 10.1097/00005382-199422000-00006.

Abstract

Primary mesenchymal intrathoracic tumors are unusual. They can originate from the lung, the pleura, or the mediastinal structures. These sarcomas have protean, nonspecific imaging features. This pictorial essay illustrates a large number of these tumors, describes the plain film findings, and emphasizes the contribution of the new imaging modalities. The cross-sectional display and the high contrast resolution computed tomography (CT) and the ability to image vascular structures and chest wall with magnetic resonance (MR) allow excellent delineation of tumor extent and assessment of chest wall or vascular invasion. Early recognition of recurrence or metastases can be facilitated. In rare instances, the intrinsic characteristics of the tumor allow a specific diagnosis.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Female
  • Fibrosarcoma / diagnosis
  • Fibrosarcoma / diagnostic imaging
  • Hemangiopericytoma / diagnosis
  • Hemangiopericytoma / diagnostic imaging
  • Histiocytoma, Benign Fibrous / diagnosis
  • Histiocytoma, Benign Fibrous / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Leiomyosarcoma / diagnosis
  • Leiomyosarcoma / diagnostic imaging
  • Liposarcoma / diagnosis
  • Liposarcoma / diagnostic imaging
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Osteosarcoma / diagnosis
  • Osteosarcoma / diagnostic imaging
  • Rhabdomyosarcoma / diagnosis
  • Rhabdomyosarcoma / diagnostic imaging
  • Sarcoma / diagnosis*
  • Sarcoma / diagnostic imaging
  • Thoracic Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Thoracic Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*