Eggshell calcification (lymph nodes)

Eggshell calcification refers to fine calcification seen at the periphery of a mass and usually relates to lamellar lymph node calcification. For similar appearance in the breast see eggshell calcification (breast).

In 1967 Jacobsen and Felson published criteria to help "avoid over-reading of the incidental circumferential concentrations of calcium and to eliminate confusion with the ring shadows of bronchi on end." These criteria were :

  • shell-like calcifications up to 2 mm thick must be present in the peripheral zone of at least two lymph nodes
  • the calcifications may be solid or broken
  • in at least one of the lymph nodes, the ringlike shadow must be complete
  • the central part of the lymph node may show additional calcifications
  • one of the affected lymph nodes must be at least 1 cm in its greatest diameter

Pathology

Etiology

In the mediastinum and thorax :

Differential diagnosis

For eggshell like calcification appearances in the thorax consider:

See also