Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is the most common primary malignancy of the pleura and is associated with asbestos exposure in approximately 80% of patients. The patient prognosis is poor, with a median survival of 9-17 months after diagnosis. However, improved survival and decreased morbidity and mortality have been demonstrated when the diagnosis is made in the early stages of disease and specific treatment strategies are implemented. A staging system that focuses on the extent of primary tumor (T), lymph node involvement (N), and metastatic disease (M) has been devised by the International Mesothelioma Interest Group and emphasizes factors related to overall survival. Radiologists should recognize the manifestations of MPM across multiple imaging modalities, translate these findings into the updated staging system, and understand the effects of appropriate staging on treatment and survival. Computed tomography (CT) remains the primary imaging modality used to evaluate MPM and efficiently demonstrates the extent of primary tumor, intrathoracic lymphadenopathy, and extrathoracic spread. However, additional imaging modalities, such as magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the thorax and positron emission tomography (PET)/CT with fluorodeoxyglucose, have emerged in recent years and are complementary to CT for disease staging and evaluation of patients with MPM. Thoracic MR imaging is particularly useful for identifying invasion of the chest wall, mediastinum, and diaphragm, and PET/CT can accurately demonstrate intrathoracic and extrathoracic lymphadenopathy and metastatic disease.

This article illustrates the complex anatomy of the nervous system within the chest and details important epidemiologic and pathophysiologic features as an approach to neurogenic tumors of the thorax. Key imaging features of neurogenic tumors occurring in the chest are identified, focusing on distinguishing characteristics and the relative advantages of available imaging modalities to further refine a differential diagnosis.

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The pubic symphysis is a midline, nonsynovial joint that connects the right and left superior pubic rami. The interposed fibrocartilaginous disk is reinforced by a series of ligaments that attach to it. The joint allows very limited movement of approximately 0.5-1mm. Under hormonal stimulation during pregnancy, there is widening of the symphysis pubis and the sacroiliac joints. Diastasis wider than 15 mm is considered subdislocation and is generally associated with pain, swelling, and occasionally deformity. Most cases can be treated conservatively. However, internal or external surgical stabilization may occasionally be required.

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