Benign and malignant masses of the retroperitoneum

Abstract

Retroperitoneum is defined as the posterior portion of the abdomen behind the peritoneal space (Fig. 108.1). There are several pathological processes which occur within the retroperitoneum such as trauma, idiopathic, congenital, inflammatory, vascular, and neoplastic disorders. Retroperitoneal trauma can be a life-threatening condition if not diagnosed early. The diagnosis of retroperitoneal diseases is mainly based on cross-sectional imaging since most of the symptoms and clinical examination related to retroperitoneum are usually occult (Fig. 108.2a-c).