James Clark MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Jason Douglas Sweet MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

The purpose of this exhibit is to: 1. Review normal imaging anatomy of the retroperitoneum and peri-aortic structures. 2. Provide a case-based review of peri- and para-aortic retroperitoneal masses and a differential diagnosis.  

1. Case review of various peri- and para-aortic retroperitoneal masses with a variety of different clinical presentations. Cases include retroperitoneal fibrosis, lymphoma, metastatic lymphadenopathy, aortitis, ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm, inflammatory aortic aneurysm, hemorrhage, sarcoma, post-treatment change to include surgery and post-radiation change. 2. Review imaging findings and differentiating features of peri- and para-aortic masses using CT and MRI.  

Given the ubiquity of CT of the abdomen and pelvis, peri- and para-aortic masses are not infrequently encountered. At first glance, these masses have a similar appearance and may cause diagnostic dilemmas. However, by understanding characteristic imaging findings in the appropriate clinic setting, one will develop an appropriate differential of diagnostic considerations.

Clark, J, Sweet, J, Differential Diagnosis of Peri- and Para-aortic Masses: A Case-based Approach.  Radiological Society of North America 2012 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 25 - November 30, 2012 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2012/12023254.html