[CT findings of malignant lymphoma of the anterior mediastinum--differentiation from invasive thymoma].

CT findings were compared retrospectively between 9 cases with malignant lymphoma of the anterior mediastinum and 8 cases with invasive thymoma. CT findings of malignant lymphoma were as follows: 1) The majority of the tumors were bilateral and extended beyond the anterior mediastinum to the other mediastinum compartments. 2) Their margin was either smooth or lobulated. 3) Their density was either homogeneous or heterogeneous. In the case with heterogeneous density, ring, triangle and/or band-like low density areas, just like interspace of fused lymph nodes, were demonstrated. Calcification or cysts could not be shown. 4) Patent inherent vessels without deviation were occasionally demonstrated running through the tumors. 5) The tumors faced and contacted widely to anterior chest wall and often pressed the lung laterally at the anterior parietomediastinal pleural reflection. 6) Pleural implants were not demonstrated.