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Título

Guide for Pectoral Muscle Assessment: What the Thoracic Radiologist Should Know?

Introdução e objetivo(s)

The evaluation of pectoral muscles in imaging exams, such as Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), is crucial in diagnosing traumatic, neoplastic, aesthetic, and postoperative conditions. The thoracic radiologist plays a crucial role in assessing the pectoral musculature, as detailed imaging analysis can identify abnormalities indicative of various pathological conditions, including trauma, inflammatory processes, infections, and neoplasms. Knowledge of normal anatomical variants and pathological manifestations of the pectoral muscles is essential to ensure a comprehensive and accurate radiological evaluation, directly influencing appropriate clinical management and patient prognosis.

Método(s)

A case study was conducted to analyze the pectoral muscles using CT and MRI. The review included various types of lesions, such as muscle trauma, benign and malignant tumors, as well as anatomical variations. The main characteristics observed in CT and MRI were discussed, including signs of edema, hemorrhage, fibrosis, and muscle injuries, with an emphasis on the best approaches for accurate diagnosis.

Discussão

CT is useful for assessing bone injuries but has limitations in visualizing muscle lesions. MRI, preferred for pectoral muscles, excels at differentiating soft tissues, analyzing muscle injuries, and detecting edema, hematomas, and fibrosis. It distinguishes benign lesions, like lipomas, from malignant tumors, including metastases. Accurate lesion localization guides treatment decisions. MRI also aids in assessing the relationship between pectoral muscles and adjacent structures, essential for surgical planning, especially in breast reconstruction or aesthetic procedures. In neoplastic conditions, MRI helps evaluate muscle mass and tumor infiltration, with prognostic value in breast cancer. Postoperatively, MRI is vital for assessing muscle and tendon integrity, detecting complications like hematomas or ruptures.

Conclusões

The evaluation of the pectoral musculature in thoracic imaging is essential, offering detailed insights into structural integrity, pathological changes, and post-traumatic alterations. MRI, with its superior soft tissue resolution, is particularly advantageous for detecting subtle muscular abnormalities, edema, and early-stage neoplasms. For the thoracic radiologist, proficiency in differentiating normal anatomical variants from pathological findings is crucial to avoid misinterpretation and unnecessary interventions.

Palavras Chave

Pectoralis Muscle; Anatomical Variations in Pectoralis; Thoracic radiology

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