Periportal tuberculous adenitis: CT features.

Abstract

The computed tomographic (CT) findings in six patients with periportal tuberculous adenitis were reviewed retrospectively to analyze the main morphologic features of the disease. In all patients, hypodense lymph nodes were observed close to the porta hepatis, with peripheral enhancement seen after administration of contrast material. In one patient, this hypodense adenopathy was associated with homogeneous, normally enhancing lymph nodes. These different features on the CT scans could signify the evolving pathologic stages of the disease, with early noncaseating granulomas and subsequent caseation necrosis. Recognition of these hypodense lymph nodes, especially in patients at risk, should help optimize the correct diagnosis of periportal tuberculous adenitis.