Pulmonary varices, benign congenital anomalies simulating perihilar masses of various etiologies.

Pulmonary varices are rare and relatively benign congenital malformations. These localized aneurysmatic dilatations of pulmonary veins drain normally to the left atrium. Their radiological appearance may simulate perihilar masses of neoplastic or granulomatous origin and pulmonary arteriovenous fistulae, thus, potentially leading to diagnostic pitfalls. The diagnosis is made during the venous phase of pulmonary angiography which is always necessary in order to avoid unnecessary surgical procedures. An illustrative case and discussion of the subject is presented herein.