Computed Tomography of Pericardial Masses

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Abstract
Eight patients with surgically proven primary intrapericardial masses were evaluated over the past 3 yr using a variety of radiologic tests. Dynamic CT [computed tomography] prospectively identified the masses in all 8 patients, esophagography was positive in 4 of 5 patients, chest radiography was prospectively positive in 1 of 8 patients, and echocardiography identified a mass in only 1 of 7 patients. Precise CT localization of the masses proved important in surgical management of these patients, suggesting in several isntances the need for cardiopulmonary bypass. Although echocardiography is the modality of choice in evaluating potential pericardial effusion, CT should be the preferred diagnostic test for suspected intrapericardial mass lesions.