mediastinal bulk
Pronunciation: mee-dee-ah-STY-nal bulk
Large mediastinal lymph node masses that require specific treatment considerations in pediatric lymphomas.
Full Definition
Mediastinal bulk refers to large lymph node masses in the mediastinum that exceed specific size criteria, typically defined as a mass greater than one-third of the thoracic diameter on chest X-ray or greater than 10 cm in maximum diameter on CT scan. This finding is particularly significant in pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma and primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma, where it affects staging, prognosis, and treatment planning. Mediastinal bulk may cause superior vena cava syndrome or respiratory compromise and requires careful management during treatment.
Usage
Usage note: Do not hyphenate unless used as a compound modifier (mediastinal-bulk disease).
In Context
- "The chest CT demonstrated mediastinal bulk measuring 12 cm in diameter." — Imaging report
- "Patients with mediastinal bulk require radiation therapy in addition to chemotherapy." — Treatment protocol