Mediastinal Masses

Abstract

The mediastinum is defined as the thoracic region limited by the pleural spaces laterally, the sternum anteriorly, the vertebral column posteriorly, the thoracic inlet superiorly, and the diaphragm inferiorly. The mediastinum contains different types of tissue including the thymus gland, part of trachea and esophagus, the great vessels, the heart, lymph nodes, fat, and nerves. Mediastinal masses can derive from each of those tissue and can be malformative, neoplastic, or infective [1–5]. Table 11.1 illustrates the different origins of mediastinal masses.