A clinical study to evaluate the role of CT in the detection, localization and characterization of retroperitoneal masses

Abstract

: Retroperitoneal masses constitute a heterogeneous group of uncommon lesions and represent a challenge due to overlapping imaging findings. Most are malignant lesions. To evaluate the role of CT in the detection, localization and characterization of retroperitoneal masses and to compare and correlate with post-surgical evaluation and histological evaluation whenever possible.: The cross-sectional study carried out in the Department of Radiodiagnosis for a period of 2 years. Present study involved 50 patients of either sex belonging to various age groups. The CT scan findings were correlated with the findings at surgery and histopathological examination. : Renal masses were the most common retroperitoneal mass(48%). Renal cell carcinoma was the most common renal tumour (66.6%)and pancreatic adenocarcinoma was the most common pancreatic tumour (68.7%). Majority of cases of retroperitoneal mass were in the age group 51-70 years. Males were affected more than females in a ratio of 1.94: 1. Mass in the abdomen was the most common clinical presenting feature (40%). CT accuracy in the diagnosis of retroperitoneal tumours was 96%. CT is an essential diagnostic modality in diagnosing and characterizing retroperitoneal masses. It establishes the location of such masses and shows in great detail the associated findings.