Abstract：Objective: To explore the CT features and distribution characteristics of lymph node metastases of neck, mediastinum and abdomen in patients with thoracic esophageal carcinoma. Methods: To analyse the CT materials of 200 cases of histopathologically proved esophageal cancer retrospectively with three fields of lymph node metastases. The CT imaging criteria of lymph node metastases are maximum short axis diameter of lymph node equal to or larger than 1cm. According to the lymph node location, the three fields of lymph node were classified as 19 groups. CT imaging was evaluated with special attention to the location, shape, size, number and enhancement. Results: The lymph node metastases of three fields were observed mainly around the right inferior paratracheal nodes(40.0%), the aorticopulmonary window nodes(34.0%), and the inferior tracheal bifurcation nodes(27.0%). The posterior crural nodes(2.5%), and the splenic nodes(1.5%) were the least location where metastases occurred. Conclusion: Lymph node metastases of thoracic esophageal carcinoma are mainly located around the right inferior paratracheal nodes, the aorticopulmonary window nodes and the inferior tracheal bifurcation. CT imaging can clearly reveal the location of lymphadenopathy in patients with esophageal carcinoma.
2009, Vol. 20 
