Enhanced CT is not capable of determining whether an anterior mediastinal nodule is benign. However, if the anterior mediastinal nodule is accompanied by vascularization, an enhanced CT can be performed to assist in determining the nature of the nodule and provide a basis for subsequent treatment. In addition, the nature of the nodule can be initially determined by the shape, size and density of the nodule, and of course, a biopsy can also be performed to determine whether the nodule is benign or not.
1. Enhanced CT scan: malignant nodules have rich blood supply, if blood vessels pass through the nodule, malignant tumor should be highly suspected. At this time, through the enhanced CT can more clearly see the blood vessel’s course and the edge of the lesion, which is conducive to distinguishing whether the nodule is benign or not.
2. Empirical judgment: Generally speaking, benign nodules have smaller diameter, clearer borders and relatively uniform density; malignant nodules generally have larger diameter, blurred borders and less uniform density.
3. Puncture biopsy: For nodules with large diameter, if it is impossible to distinguish between benign and malignant, CT-guided puncture biopsy can be performed to determine the benign and malignant nature of the nodule according to the pathological examination results. If the nodule is too large and produces pressure symptoms, surgical resection can be performed directly, and the nature of the nodule can be determined by pathologic examination after surgery.
Enhanced CT cannot determine whether the anterior mediastinal nodule is benign or not, and the detection of anterior mediastinal nodule should be promptly consulted to avoid delaying the condition.