Diagnostic and Imaging Approaches to Chest Wall Lesions

Abstract

Recognize various chest wall lesions and their characteristic imaging findings. Discuss the diagnosis and management of different chest wall lesions.Identify the imaging findings and clinical clues that can aid in making the appropriate diagnosis.

Insidious Onset Multifocal Chest Wall and Spinal Abscess Caused by Previous Candidemia: A Case Report

“…Infection and subsequent abscess of the chest wall are often misdiagnosed clinically ( 3 ). The most commonly encountered organisms in chest wall infections are Staphylococcus aureus and Mycobacterium tuberculosis ( 3 8 ).…”

“…Infection and subsequent abscess of the chest wall are often misdiagnosed clinically ( 3 ). The most commonly encountered organisms in chest wall infections are Staphylococcus aureus and Mycobacterium tuberculosis ( 3 8 ). In patients who are immunocompromised or have diabetes, other less common pathogens, including fungal organisms, may be encountered ( 3 ).…”

“…The most commonly encountered organisms in chest wall infections are Staphylococcus aureus and Mycobacterium tuberculosis ( 3 8 ). In patients who are immunocompromised or have diabetes, other less common pathogens, including fungal organisms, may be encountered ( 3 ). Chest wall abscesses caused by C. albicans , especially those with insidious onset, are extremely rare.…”

“…In general, abscesses appear as organized fluid collections with peripheral enhancements. They often show surrounding fat stranding on CT images ( 3 ). Cold abscess, which is a swelling without inflammation, is a characteristic of chest wall tuberculosis ( 9 ).…”

“…Imaging findings of an abscess may not differ according to the primary pathogen. Most cases show organized fluid collections with peripheral enhancement and surrounding fat stranding ( 3 ). Only a few cases of Candida chest wall abscess have been reported.…”