What are the mediastinal and bilateral hilar calcified lymph nodes?

Calcified lymph nodes in the mediastinum and both lung hilums means that there is significant calcification of the lymph nodes in this area, and the patient may not have any symptoms themselves. Lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels are a type of immune system circuit present throughout the body, with lymphatic fluid circulating within them, which serves to strengthen an individual’s resistance and block the spread of disease. Calcification of the lymph nodes occurs because of the presence of chronic inflammation, tuberculosis, etc. Under the stimulation of these diseases or infections, calcium salts are deposited and hardened, which appear as white, dense shadows on imaging. Calcification of lymph nodes in the mediastinum and both lung hilums is still relatively common, indicating that chronic inflammation or tuberculosis may have existed in the mediastinum and the lungs in the past, but at this time, most of them are asymptomatic, and generally do not require treatment, but regular follow-up in the thoracic surgery clinic is recommended.