Paraesophageal Varices Presenting as a Retrocardiac Mediastinal Mass

Abstract

This report is a reminder that portal hypertension with paraesophageal varices can present as a retrocardiac mass on the chest radiograph. Schistosoma mansoni, the probable etiology in this case, causes periportal fibrosis and is the most common explanation for portal hypertension worldwide. Modern imaging techniques were most helpful in the diagnostic work-up, ultrasonography revealing pathognomonic hyperechoic periportal bands, and CT and MR imaging showing the extent of collaterals.