HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Is Meant By "mediastinum Is Not Widened"?

default
Posted on Mon, 17 Nov 2014
Question: What does it mean when an Xray shows mediastinum is not widened?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (10 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
that is good

Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

This is good.

The mediastinum refers to structures in the center of the chest. The area between the right and left lung.

It contains : (1) the heart and the large vessels connected to the heart. This refers to the vessels leading from the lungs to the heart and leading from the heart to the circulation

(2)trachea

(3)esophagus

(4)nerves

(5)thymus and lymph nodes

This space, the mediastinum is artificially divided (no actual dividing lines) into portions- the anterior, posterior and middle portion.

The fact that it is not wide is a good thing. Widening would occur if there is some disease or disorder of one of the structures mentioned eg heart enlargement or mass in the esophagus

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Michelle Gibson James (3 minutes later)
Should I be concerned with the hyperinflation of the lungs? I have a history of asthma and chronic bronchitis.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (7 hours later)
Brief Answer:
can be related to either condition

Detailed Answer:
HI

Sorry about the late reply

Hyperinflation can occur in asthma because of retention of air, it is also a feature that can be seen in some persons with chronic bronchitis as well.

In some cases if there is an acute asthmatic attack or acute worsening of chronic bronchitis, the hyperinflation may be reversible if the acute symptoms or problems are treated.

In some cases the change may be permanent.
Hyperinflation is a sign that may occur with different conditions. It will not cause symptoms on its own but any symptoms that occur would be due to the condition causing the hyperinflation

Please feel free to ask any other questions
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
What Is Meant By "mediastinum Is Not Widened"?

Brief Answer: that is good Detailed Answer: HI, thanks for using healthcare magic This is good. The mediastinum refers to structures in the center of the chest. The area between the right and left lung. It contains : (1) the heart and the large vessels connected to the heart. This refers to the vessels leading from the lungs to the heart and leading from the heart to the circulation (2)trachea (3)esophagus (4)nerves (5)thymus and lymph nodes This space, the mediastinum is artificially divided (no actual dividing lines) into portions- the anterior, posterior and middle portion. The fact that it is not wide is a good thing. Widening would occur if there is some disease or disorder of one of the structures mentioned eg heart enlargement or mass in the esophagus I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions