ABSTRACT
The renal fascia can be seen on CT scans (using appropriate window settings) in most patients except those with very little fat. CT confirms current anatomical concepts; however, contrary to the illustrations shown in the literature, it clearly demonstrates that the anterior pararenal space normally exists only at the level of the retroperitoneal organs. A lesion would distend the space. While visualization of the renal fascia on normal urograms may be an indication of renal disease, a thin renal fascia on CT scans has no pathological significance. Thickening is nonspecific: it is not pathognomonic of tumor, nor is it helpful in differentiating pancreatitis from neoplasm. On the other hand, lack of fascial thickening may be helpful in ruling out renal extension of a neighboring lesion.
Subject(s)
Fascia , Kidney/diagnostic imaging , Tomography, X-Ray Computed , Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/diagnostic imaging , Humans , Kidney Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging , Liver Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging , Male , Middle Aged , Pancreas/diagnostic imagingABSTRACT
Three cases of benign pancreatic cystadenoma, diagnosed by computed tomography (CT), are reported. Other neoplasms with similar CT appearance are illustrated as examples of some pitfalls in the CT diagnosis of cystadenoma.
Subject(s)
Cystadenoma/diagnostic imaging , Pancreatic Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging , Tomography, X-Ray Computed , Aged , Diagnosis, Differential , Female , HumansABSTRACT
Abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract will be found on computed tomography (CT) scans performed for other indications if they are carefully searched for. This potential will increase as CT is used earlier in the investigation of suspected abnormalities of the pancreas. retroperitoneum, and liver. Additionally, CT may be valuable in assessing the extent of a known primary lesion of the alimentary tract.
