Pediatric Mediastinal Masses:: Role of MR Imaging as a Problem-Solving Tool

Computed tomography (CT) is the imaging modality of choice for evaluating mediastinal masses detected by radiography or clinical presentation. However, CT results can often be indeterminate. Thoracic magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is a noninvasive way to characterize mediastinal lesions, site of origin, and involvement of adjacent structures by providing higher soft tissue contrast than CT, with superior tissue characterization and higher diagnostic specificity. Thoracic MR imaging of mediastinal masses can increase diagnostic certainty, reduce the number of surgical interventions, and improve clinical decision making. In this review article, current imaging techniques and clinical applications of MR imaging as a problem-solving tool for assessing mediastinal masses in pediatric patients are discussed.