University:
Western Sydney University
Course:
MEDI 2003 | Clinical Sciences 2
Academic year:

2024
Views:

178

Pages:

2
Author:

Mariam A.

Common tumours of the anterior and posterior superior mediastinum Anterior Superior Mediastinum: 1. Thymoma: o Originates from the thymus gland, which is a primary lymphoid organ located in the anterior mediastinum. o Thymomas are typically slow-growing tumors that can be benign or malignant. o Symptoms may include chest pain, coughing, difficulty breathing, and fatigue. o Diagnosis often involves imaging studies like CT scans and MRI, along with biopsy for confirmation. o Treatment usually involves surgical resection, sometimes followed by chemotherapy or radiation therapy depending on the stage and type of thymoma. 2. Thyroid Masses: o Although the thyroid gland is primarily located in the neck, it can occasionally extend into the superior mediastinum. o Thyroid masses in the mediastinum may be benign or malignant and can present with symptoms related to compression of nearby structures. o Diagnosis involves imaging studies like CT scans, MRI, and ultrasound, along with biopsy for confirmation. o Treatment depends on the nature of the mass but may include surgical resection, radioactive iodine therapy, and hormone replacement therapy. Posterior Superior Mediastinum: 1. Neurogenic Tumors: o Neurogenic tumors arise from nerve tissue and are the most common tumors in the posterior mediastinum. o They include schwannomas, neurofibromas, and ganglioneuromas. o Symptoms vary depending on the size and location of the tumor but may include chest pain, back pain, and neurological deficits. o Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies like CT scans and MRI, along with biopsy for confirmation. o Treatment involves surgical resection, and the prognosis is generally good, especially for benign tumors. 2. Esophageal Tumors: o Esophageal tumors can extend into the posterior mediastinum, particularly if they are located in the lower part of the esophagus. o These tumors can be benign (e.g., leiomyoma) or malignant (e.g., esophageal cancer). o Symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and unintentional weight loss. o Diagnosis involves imaging studies like CT scans, MRI, and endoscopy, along with biopsy for confirmation. o Treatment depends on the type and stage of the tumor but may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.