[X-ray diagnosis and differential diagnosis of mediastinal tumors in childhood (author's transl)].

Symptoms, microscopy and frequency of mediastinal tumors in children are different from those in adults. The radiologic diagnosis of mediastinal tumors depends on evaluation of tumor site, density, and shape. Demonstration of calcifications or bony elements in combination with skeletal anomalies or destructions, pleural effusions, and differentiation of cystic and solid tumors are helpful. The radiologic criteria are also very important regarding prognosis and therapy. Many diagnostic methods are available. The venocavography and computer tomography are especially helpful.--We studied 184 mediastinal tumors in children and will discuss them according to topographic aspects; emphasis will be placed on differential diagnosis and the possibilities of diagnostic failure.