IgG4-Related Sclerosing Mediastinitis: Report of a Case with Distinct Ultrasound Findings

Introduction

Sclerosing mediastinitis is a rare disease characterized by an aggressive fibroinflammatory process within the mediastinum. It may result in the compression and functional impairment of vital mediastinal structures. The precise etiology and pathogenesis of the disease are unknown. Several cases in North America are considered to be caused by Histoplasma capsulatum infection. Most cases in Europe seem to be idiopathic. Occasionally sclerosing mediastinitis is associated with a large number of immunoglobulin-G4 (IgG4)-positive plasma cells and is then referred to as IgG4-related sclerosing mediastinitis. We present a case of IgG4-related sclerosing mediastinitis in which percutaneous ultrasound revealed distinct signs because the disease extended into the neck on the left side.