MEDIASTINAL CYSTS

Mediastinal cysts identified in children are classified according to the compartment where they arise as: anterior (extends to the sternum, thoracic inlet and anterior border of the heart), middle (between anterior mediastinum and anterior borders of the vertebrae) or posterior mediastinum. Although usually asymptomatic, they require excision for purpose of diagnosis and avoidance of symptoms such as chest pain, airway obstruction, hemoptysis or dysphagia. Diagnosis can be accomplished with the use of CT-Scan, US and esophagogram. Some of the most common encounter cysts in the mediastinum are: bronchogenic cysts, neurenteric cysts, pericardial cysts, cystic hygroma, thymic and dermoid cysts.