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==Overview==
==Overview==
Mediastinitis is inflammation or infection of the tissues in the mid-chest, or [[mediastinum]].<ref name="pmid23372962">{{cite journal| author=Koksal D, Bayiz H, Mutluay N, Koyuncu A, Demirag F, Dagli G et al.| title=Fibrosing mediastinitis mimicking bronchogenic carcinoma. | journal=J Thorac Dis | year= 2013 | volume= 5 | issue= 1 | pages= E5-7 | pmid=23372962 | doi=10.3978/j.issn.2072-1439.2012.07.03 | pmc=PMC3548007 | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=23372962  }} </ref> This disorder is rare, but is most often observed among patients following chest surgery or [[endoscopy]]. Mediastinitis may occur at any age.<ref name="pmid14759458">{{cite journal| author=Abboud CS, Wey SB, Baltar VT| title=Risk factors for mediastinitis after cardiac surgery. | journal=Ann Thorac Surg | year= 2004 | volume= 77 | issue= 2 | pages= 676-83 | pmid=14759458 | doi=10.1016/S0003-4975(03)01523-6 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=14759458  }} </ref> It may be classified according to cause into 2 groups: acute or chronic (fibrosing). Acute mediastinitis is usually bacterial and due to rupture of organs in the mediastinum. Chronic [[sclerosis|sclerosing]] (or fibrosing) mediastinitis, while potentially serious, is caused by a long-standing inflammation of the mediastinum, leading to growth of acellular collagen and fibrous tissue within the chest and around the central vessels and airways. Life threatening causes of mediastinitis include [[Boerhaave syndrome|esophageal perforation]].  Common causes of mediastinitis trauma, [[streptococcus|beta-hemolytic streptococcus]], [[vomiting|forceful or constant vomiting]] and [[median sternotomy]]. If left untreated, fibrosing mediastinitis may progress into [[sepsis]] and subsequently, death. The presence of mediastinitis among patients following chest surgery is observed to have a particularly poor prognosis; there is a serious risk of death.<ref name=XXA> Mediastinitis: a potentially lethal infection. Thoracics (2012). http://thoracics.org/2012/03/03/mediastinitis-noncardiac-surgery/ Accessed on September 25, 2015.</ref> Common complications of mediastinitis include sepsis and spread of the infection. Symptoms of mediastinitis include [[chest pain]], [[malaise]], and [[shortness of breath]]<ref name="pmid26336443">{{cite journal| author=Lewandowski B, Pakla P, Wołek W, Jednakiewicz M, Nicpoń J| title=A fatal case of descending necrotizing mediastinitis as a complication of odontogenic infection. A case report. | journal=Kardiochir Torakochirurgia Pol | year= 2014 | volume= 11 | issue= 3 | pages= 324-8 | pmid=26336443 | doi=10.5114/kitp.2014.45685 | pmc=PMC4283893 | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=26336443  }} </ref> Common physical examination findings of mediastinitis include clinical signs of sepsis, [[tachycardia]], and [[tachypnoea]]<ref name=BBB>Acute Mediastinitis Following a Laparotomy for Small Bowel Obstruction. Journal of Current Surgery (2014) http://jcs.elmerpress.com/index.php/jcs/article/view/252 Accessed on September 28, 2015</ref>. [[CT Scan]] is the preferred imaging of choice for diagnosis of mediastinitis. Mediastinitis is characterized by the presence of calcified mediastinal mass. The mainstay of therapy in acute mediastinitis secondary to cardiothoracic surgery includes [[Clindamycin]] and [[Ceftriaxone]]. The preferred regimen for preoperative prophylaxis against acute mediastinitis includes either a second generation [[Cephalosporin]] or [[Vancomycin]]. Aggressive surgical debridement is the recommended among patients with descending necrotizing mediastinitis.  
Mediastinitis is inflammation or infection of the tissues in the mid-chest, or [[mediastinum]].<ref name="pmid23372962">{{cite journal| author=Koksal D, Bayiz H, Mutluay N, Koyuncu A, Demirag F, Dagli G et al.| title=Fibrosing mediastinitis mimicking bronchogenic carcinoma. | journal=J Thorac Dis | year= 2013 | volume= 5 | issue= 1 | pages= E5-7 | pmid=23372962 | doi=10.3978/j.issn.2072-1439.2012.07.03 | pmc=PMC3548007 | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=23372962  }} </ref> This disorder is rare, but is most often observed among patients following chest surgery or [[endoscopy]]. Mediastinitis may occur at any age.<ref name="pmid14759458">{{cite journal| author=Abboud CS, Wey SB, Baltar VT| title=Risk factors for mediastinitis after cardiac surgery. | journal=Ann Thorac Surg | year= 2004 | volume= 77 | issue= 2 | pages= 676-83 | pmid=14759458 | doi=10.1016/S0003-4975(03)01523-6 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=14759458  }} </ref> It may be classified according to cause into 2 groups: acute or chronic ([[sclerosis|sclerosing]] or [[fibrosis|fibrosing]]). Acute mediastinitis is usually bacterial and due to rupture of organs in the mediastinum. Chronic sclerosing (or fibrosing) mediastinitis, while potentially serious, is caused by a long-standing inflammation of the mediastinum, leading to growth of acellular collagen and fibrous tissue within the chest and around the central vessels and airways. Life threatening causes of mediastinitis include [[Boerhaave syndrome|esophageal perforation]].  Common causes of mediastinitis include [[trauma]], [[streptococcus|beta-hemolytic streptococcus]], [[vomiting|forceful or constant vomiting]], and [[median sternotomy]]. If left untreated, fibrosing mediastinitis may progress to [[sepsis]] and subsequently, death. The presence of mediastinitis among patients following chest surgery is observed to have a particularly poor prognosis; there is a serious risk of mortality.<ref name=XXA> Mediastinitis: a potentially lethal infection. Thoracics (2012). http://thoracics.org/2012/03/03/mediastinitis-noncardiac-surgery/ Accessed on September 25, 2015.</ref> Common complications of mediastinitis include sepsis and spread of the infection. Symptoms of mediastinitis include [[chest pain]], [[malaise]], and [[shortness of breath]].<ref name="pmid26336443">{{cite journal| author=Lewandowski B, Pakla P, Wołek W, Jednakiewicz M, Nicpoń J| title=A fatal case of descending necrotizing mediastinitis as a complication of odontogenic infection. A case report. | journal=Kardiochir Torakochirurgia Pol | year= 2014 | volume= 11 | issue= 3 | pages= 324-8 | pmid=26336443 | doi=10.5114/kitp.2014.45685 | pmc=PMC4283893 | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=26336443  }} </ref> Common physical examination findings of mediastinitis include clinical signs of [[sepsis]], [[tachycardia]], and [[tachypnea]].<ref name=BBB>Acute Mediastinitis Following a Laparotomy for Small Bowel Obstruction. Journal of Current Surgery (2014) http://jcs.elmerpress.com/index.php/jcs/article/view/252 Accessed on September 28, 2015</ref> [[CT scan]] may be diagnostic of mediastinitis. On CT scan, findings suggestive of mediastinitis include the presence of [[calcification|calcified]] mediastinal mass. The mainstay of therapy in acute mediastinitis secondary to cardiothoracic surgery includes [[clindamycin]] and [[ceftriaxone]]. The preferred regimen for preoperative [[prophylaxis]] against acute mediastinitis includes either a second generation [[cephalosporin]] or [[vancomycin]]. Aggressive surgical debridement is recommended among patients with descending necrotizing mediastinitis.  
 
==Historical Perspective==
Chronic mediastinitis was first described by Dr. Thomas T. Whipham, MD, a British physician, in 1899.<ref name=AAA> The Lancet. Google Books (2015). https://books.google.com/books?id=Zxw6AQAAMAAJ&pg=PA947&lpg=PA947&dq=the+lancet+mediastinitis+1896&source=bl&ots=izLFx5SXRB&sig=mXN15zc74xrPIn00rWnfoZ_NQ9Y&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0CB0Q6AEwAGoVChMIgPPf0aiByAIVAW0-Ch3LpgUe#v=onepage&q=lancet%20mediastinitis%201896&f=false Accessed on September 18, 2015</ref>


==Classification==
==Classification==
Mediastinitis may be classified according to cause into 2 groups: acute or chronic (fibrosing).<ref name=CAT> Mediastinitis. Wikipedia (2015) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediastinitis Accessed on September 21, 2015</ref>  
Mediastinitis may be classified according to cause into 2 groups: acute or chronic ([[sclerosis|sclerosing]] or [[fibrosis|fibrosing]]).<ref name=CAT> Mediastinitis. Wikipedia (2015) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediastinitis Accessed on September 21, 2015</ref> Additionally, acute mediastinitis may be classified according to the cause of the disease.<ref name=MendellID> Mandell GL. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. Churchill Livingstone; 2010.</ref>


==Pathophysiology==
==Pathophysiology==
Mediastinitis is the inflammation or infection of the [[mediastinum]].<ref name="pmid23372962">{{cite journal| author=Koksal D, Bayiz H, Mutluay N, Koyuncu A, Demirag F, Dagli G et al.| title=Fibrosing mediastinitis mimicking bronchogenic carcinoma. | journal=J Thorac Dis | year= 2013 | volume= 5 | issue= 1 | pages= E5-7 | pmid=23372962 | doi=10.3978/j.issn.2072-1439.2012.07.03 | pmc=PMC3548007 | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=23372962  }} </ref> Although the pathogenesis of the infection remains unknown, radiographic, serologic, and/or histopathologic evidence of prior ''Histoplasma capsulatum'' infection, [[histoplasmosis]], or [[chronic granulomatous disease]] is always observed. <ref name=PAT> Histopathologic Overlap between Fibrosing Mediastinitis and IgG4-Related Disease. International Journal of Rheumatology (2012). http://www.hindawi.com/journals/ijr/2012/207056/ Accessed on September 25, 2015 </ref>
Mediastinitis is the inflammation or infection of the [[mediastinum]].<ref name="pmid23372962">{{cite journal| author=Koksal D, Bayiz H, Mutluay N, Koyuncu A, Demirag F, Dagli G et al.| title=Fibrosing mediastinitis mimicking bronchogenic carcinoma. | journal=J Thorac Dis | year= 2013 | volume= 5 | issue= 1 | pages= E5-7 | pmid=23372962 | doi=10.3978/j.issn.2072-1439.2012.07.03 | pmc=PMC3548007 | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=23372962  }} </ref> The pathogenesis of the infection remains unknown; radiographic, serologic, and/or histopathologic evidence of prior ''[[Histoplasma capsulatum]]'' infection, [[histoplasmosis]], or [[chronic granulomatous disease]] is always observed.<ref name=PAT> Histopathologic Overlap between Fibrosing Mediastinitis and IgG4-Related Disease. International Journal of Rheumatology (2012). http://www.hindawi.com/journals/ijr/2012/207056/ Accessed on September 25, 2015 </ref> Additionally, mediastinitis may also present as the result of ''[[Staphylococcus aureus]]'' or ''[[Staphylococcus epidermidis]]'' infection following chest surgery.<ref name="pmid16930768">{{cite journal| author=Konvalinka A, Erret L, Fong IW| title=Impact of treating Staphylococcus aureus nasal carreiers on wound infections in cardiac surgery.| journal=J Hosp Infect| year= 2006 | volume= 64 | issue= 2 | pages= 162-8| pmid= 16930768 | doi= | pmc= |url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16930768 }} </ref>


==Causes==
==Causes==
[[Esophageal perforation]] is a life-threatening cause of mediastinitisCommon causes of mediastinitis include infections, trauma, [[endoscopy]], and forceful vomiting.
Common causes of mediastinitis include bacterial and fungal infections, including [[group A beta-hemolytic streptococci]], ''[[Mycobacterium tuberculosis]]'', and ''[[Histoplasma capsulatum]]''. <ref name="pmid23351519">{{cite journal| author=Martínez Vallina P, Espinosa Jiménez D, Hernández Pérez L, Triviño Ramírez A| title=[Mediastinitis]. | journal=Arch Bronconeumol | year= 2011 | volume= 47 Suppl 8 | issue=  | pages= 32-6 | pmid=23351519 | doi=10.1016/S0300-2896(11)70065-5 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=23351519 }} </ref>
 
==Differentiating Mediastinitis from Other Diseases==
Mediastinitis must be differentiated from other diseases that cause [[fever]] and [[chest pain]], such as [[myocardial infarction]], [[pneumothorax]], and [[pneumonia]].<ref name="pmid17273573">{{cite journal| author=Kang DW, Canzian M, Beyruti R, Jatene FB| title=Sclerosing mediastinitis in the differential diagnosis of mediastinal tumors. | journal=J Bras Pneumol | year= 2006 | volume= 32 | issue= 1 | pages= 78-83 | pmid=17273573 | doi= | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=17273573  }} </ref>


==Differential Diagnosis==
==Risk Factors==
Mediastinitis must be differentiated from [[superior vena cava syndrome]] and [[Hodgkin's lymphoma]].
The most potent risk factor for mediastinitis is recent chest surgery. Other risk factors include recent [[endoscopy]], [[smoking]], and [[obesity]].<ref name="pmid14759458">{{cite journal| author=Abboud CS, Wey SB, Baltar VT| title=Risk factors for mediastinitis after cardiac surgery. | journal=Ann Thorac Surg | year= 2004 | volume= 77 | issue= 2 | pages= 676-83 | pmid=14759458 | doi=10.1016/S0003-4975(03)01523-6 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=14759458  }} </ref><ref> Risk factors for mediastinitis after cardiac surgery – a retrospective analysis of 1700 patients. Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery (2007). http://www.cardiothoracicsurgery.org/content/2/1/23 Accessed on September 21, 2015</ref>


==Natural History, Complications and Prognosis==
==Natural History, Complications and Prognosis==
If left untreated, fibrosing mediastinitis may progress into sepsis and subsequently, death. Common complications of mediastinitis include sepsis and spread of the infection. The presence of mediastinitis among patients following chest surgery is observed to have a particularly poor prognosis.  
If left untreated, fibrosing mediastinitis may progress to [[sepsis]] and subsequently, death.<ref name=AAA> Mediastinitis: a potentially lethal infection. Thoracics (2012). http://thoracics.org/2012/03/03/mediastinitis-noncardiac-surgery/ Accessed on September 25, 2015.</ref> Mortality rates related to mediastinitis vary, though some estimates predict rates greater than 60%.<ref name="pmid23351519">{{cite journal| author=Martínez Vallina P, Espinosa Jiménez D, Hernández Pérez L, Triviño Ramírez A| title=[Mediastinitis]. | journal=Arch Bronconeumol | year= 2011 | volume= 47 Suppl 8 | issue=  | pages= 32-6 | pmid=23351519 | doi=10.1016/S0300-2896(11)70065-5 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=23351519  }} </ref> Common complications of mediastinitis include [[sepsis]] and [[pneumonia]].  


==Diagnosis==
==Diagnosis==
===Diagnostic Criteria===
The diagnosis of mediastinitis is based on the CDC criteria, which includes histopathologic evidence, imagining findings, and other positive findings.
===History and Symptoms===
===History and Symptoms===
Symptoms of mediastinitis include [[chest pain]], [[malaise]], and [[shortness of breath]].
Specific areas of focus when obtaining a history from the patient include chest surgery, [[pharyngeal]] surgery, and [[endoscopy]]. Symptoms of mediastinitis include [[chest pain]], [[cough]], [[chills]], and [[shortness of breath]].  


===Physical Examination===
===Physical Examination===
Common physical examination findings of mediastinitis include clinical signs of sepsis, [[tachycardia]], and [[tachypnoea]]<ref name=BBB>Acute Mediastinitis Following a Laparotomy for Small Bowel Obstruction. Journal of Current Surgery (2014) http://jcs.elmerpress.com/index.php/jcs/article/view/252 Accessed on September 28, 2015</ref>
Common physical examination findings of mediastinitis include clinical signs of [[sepsis]], [[tachycardia]], and [[tachypnoea]].<ref name=BBB>Acute Mediastinitis Following a Laparotomy for Small Bowel Obstruction. Journal of Current Surgery (2014) http://jcs.elmerpress.com/index.php/jcs/article/view/252 Accessed on September 28, 2015</ref>


===Laboratory Findings===
===Laboratory Findings===
Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of mediastinitis include positive confirmation of organisms found upon culture of the mediastinum, including ''[[Staphylococcus aureus]]'' and ''[[Histoplasma capsulatum]]''<ref name=LAB> CDC/NHSN Surveillance Definitions for Specific Types of Infections. CDC (2015). http://www.cdc.gov/nhsn/PDFs/pscManual/17pscNosInfDef_current.pdf Accessed on September 21, 2015</ref>
Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of mediastinitis include positive confirmation of organisms found upon [[sternal]] culture during chest surgery or [[Needle aspiration biopsy|fine needle aspiration]] of the [[mediastinum]] including ''[[Staphylococcus aureus]]'' and ''[[Histoplasma capsulatum]]''.<ref name=LAB> CDC/NHSN Surveillance Definitions for Specific Types of Infections. CDC (2015). http://www.cdc.gov/nhsn/PDFs/pscManual/17pscNosInfDef_current.pdf Accessed on September 21, 2015</ref>
 
===Chest X Ray===
On chest x-ray, mediastinitis may be characterized by calcification, widening of the mediastinum, and increased right hilar bronchovascular bundles. The chest x-ray findings associated with mediastinitis are very non-specific.


===CT===
===CT===
Upon CT Scan, the appearance of mediastinitis can be variable and dependent on the pattern of involvement. Typically, the disease affects the middle mediastinum and may demonstrate mediastinal or [[hilum|hilar]] mass, infiltrative region of soft-tissue attenuation which obliterates normal mediastinal fat planes and encases or invades adjacent structures, or [[calcification]]s of the central mass or associated lymph nodes (especially if there has been preceding [[histoplasmosis]]).  
On CT scan, the appearance of mediastinitis can be variable and dependent on the pattern of involvement. Typically, the disease affects the middle mediastinum and may demonstrate mediastinal or [[hilum|hilar]] mass, infiltrative regions of soft-tissue attenuation which obliterate normal mediastinal fat planes and encase or invade adjacent structures, or [[calcification]]s of the central mass or associated lymph nodes (especially if there has been preceding [[histoplasmosis]]).<ref name=MRI> Fibrosing mediastinitis. Radiopedia.org (2015) http://radiopaedia.org/articles/fibrosing-mediastinitis Accessed on October 2, 2015 </ref>


===MRI===
===MRI===
Pattern of involvement is essentially similar to [[Mediastinitis CT|CT scan]] for mediastinitis.<ref name=MRI> Fibrosing mediastinitis. Radiopedia.org (2015) http://radiopaedia.org/articles/fibrosing-mediastinitis Accessed on October 2, 2015 </ref>
On MRI, mediastinitis is characterized by mediastinal or [[hilum|hilar]] mass or soft-tissue attenuation. Pattern of involvement is essentially similar to [[Mediastinitis CT|CT scan]] for mediastinitis.<ref name=MRI> Fibrosing mediastinitis. Radiopedia.org (2015) http://radiopaedia.org/articles/fibrosing-mediastinitis Accessed on October 2, 2015 </ref>
 
===Other Imaging Findings===
Other diagnostic studies for mediastinitis include positron emission tomography and fiberoptic [[bronchoscopy]].<ref name="pmid23372962">{{cite journal| author=Koksal D, Bayiz H, Mutluay N, Koyuncu A, Demirag F, Dagli G et al.| title=Fibrosing mediastinitis mimicking bronchogenic carcinoma. | journal=J Thorac Dis | year= 2013 | volume= 5 | issue= 1 | pages= E5-7 | pmid=23372962 | doi=10.3978/j.issn.2072-1439.2012.07.03 | pmc=PMC3548007 | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=23372962  }} </ref>


==Treatment==
==Treatment==
===Medical Therapy===
===Medical Therapy===
The mainstay of therapy in acute mediastinitis secondary to cardiothoracic surgery includes [[Clindamycin]] and [[Ceftriaxone]]. The preferred regimen for preoperative prophylaxis against acute mediastinitis includes either a second generation [[Cephalosporin]] or [[Vancomycin]].
The mainstay of therapy in acute mediastinitis secondary to cardiothoracic surgery includes [[clindamycin]] and [[ceftriaxone]]. The preferred regimen for preoperative prophylaxis against acute mediastinitis includes either a second generation [[cephalosporin]] or [[vancomycin]].


===Surgical Therapy===
===Surgical Therapy===
Aggressive surgical debridement is recommended among patients when combined with and broad spectrum antibiotics that provide coverage against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus, beta-lactamase producing gram-negative organisms, and anaerobes.
Aggressive surgical debridement is recommended among patients when combined with broad spectrum antibiotics that provide coverage against [[methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus|MRSA]], beta-lactamase producing [[gram-negative]] organisms, and [[anaerobes]].
 
==Prevention==
===Primary Prevention===
Effective measures for the primary prevention of mediastinitis include nasal decolonization, hand hygiene, and antibiotic [[prophylaxis]].
 
===Secondary Prevention===
Effective measures for the secondary prevention of mediastinitis following [[sternotomy]] include reporting wound discharge to physician and aggressive treatment of [[hyperglycemia]].


==References==
==References==
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Latest revision as of 18:02, 18 September 2017

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Anthony Gallo, B.S. [2]

Overview

Mediastinitis is inflammation or infection of the tissues in the mid-chest, or mediastinum.[1] This disorder is rare, but is most often observed among patients following chest surgery or endoscopy. Mediastinitis may occur at any age.[2] It may be classified according to cause into 2 groups: acute or chronic (sclerosing or fibrosing). Acute mediastinitis is usually bacterial and due to rupture of organs in the mediastinum. Chronic sclerosing (or fibrosing) mediastinitis, while potentially serious, is caused by a long-standing inflammation of the mediastinum, leading to growth of acellular collagen and fibrous tissue within the chest and around the central vessels and airways. Life threatening causes of mediastinitis include esophageal perforation. Common causes of mediastinitis include trauma, beta-hemolytic streptococcus, forceful or constant vomiting, and median sternotomy. If left untreated, fibrosing mediastinitis may progress to sepsis and subsequently, death. The presence of mediastinitis among patients following chest surgery is observed to have a particularly poor prognosis; there is a serious risk of mortality.[3] Common complications of mediastinitis include sepsis and spread of the infection. Symptoms of mediastinitis include chest pain, malaise, and shortness of breath.[4] Common physical examination findings of mediastinitis include clinical signs of sepsis, tachycardia, and tachypnea.[5] CT scan may be diagnostic of mediastinitis. On CT scan, findings suggestive of mediastinitis include the presence of calcified mediastinal mass. The mainstay of therapy in acute mediastinitis secondary to cardiothoracic surgery includes clindamycin and ceftriaxone. The preferred regimen for preoperative prophylaxis against acute mediastinitis includes either a second generation cephalosporin or vancomycin. Aggressive surgical debridement is recommended among patients with descending necrotizing mediastinitis.

Historical Perspective

Chronic mediastinitis was first described by Dr. Thomas T. Whipham, MD, a British physician, in 1899.[6]

Classification

Mediastinitis may be classified according to cause into 2 groups: acute or chronic (sclerosing or fibrosing).[7] Additionally, acute mediastinitis may be classified according to the cause of the disease.[8]

Pathophysiology

Mediastinitis is the inflammation or infection of the mediastinum.[1] The pathogenesis of the infection remains unknown; radiographic, serologic, and/or histopathologic evidence of prior Histoplasma capsulatum infection, histoplasmosis, or chronic granulomatous disease is always observed.[9] Additionally, mediastinitis may also present as the result of Staphylococcus aureus or Staphylococcus epidermidis infection following chest surgery.[10]

Causes

Common causes of mediastinitis include bacterial and fungal infections, including group A beta-hemolytic streptococci, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and Histoplasma capsulatum. [11]

Differentiating Mediastinitis from Other Diseases

Mediastinitis must be differentiated from other diseases that cause fever and chest pain, such as myocardial infarction, pneumothorax, and pneumonia.[12]

Risk Factors

The most potent risk factor for mediastinitis is recent chest surgery. Other risk factors include recent endoscopy, smoking, and obesity.[2][13]

Natural History, Complications and Prognosis

If left untreated, fibrosing mediastinitis may progress to sepsis and subsequently, death.[6] Mortality rates related to mediastinitis vary, though some estimates predict rates greater than 60%.[11] Common complications of mediastinitis include sepsis and pneumonia.

Diagnosis

Diagnostic Criteria

The diagnosis of mediastinitis is based on the CDC criteria, which includes histopathologic evidence, imagining findings, and other positive findings.

History and Symptoms

Specific areas of focus when obtaining a history from the patient include chest surgery, pharyngeal surgery, and endoscopy. Symptoms of mediastinitis include chest pain, cough, chills, and shortness of breath.

Physical Examination

Common physical examination findings of mediastinitis include clinical signs of sepsis, tachycardia, and tachypnoea.[5]

Laboratory Findings

Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of mediastinitis include positive confirmation of organisms found upon sternal culture during chest surgery or fine needle aspiration of the mediastinum including Staphylococcus aureus and Histoplasma capsulatum.[14]

Chest X Ray

On chest x-ray, mediastinitis may be characterized by calcification, widening of the mediastinum, and increased right hilar bronchovascular bundles. The chest x-ray findings associated with mediastinitis are very non-specific.

CT

On CT scan, the appearance of mediastinitis can be variable and dependent on the pattern of involvement. Typically, the disease affects the middle mediastinum and may demonstrate mediastinal or hilar mass, infiltrative regions of soft-tissue attenuation which obliterate normal mediastinal fat planes and encase or invade adjacent structures, or calcifications of the central mass or associated lymph nodes (especially if there has been preceding histoplasmosis).[15]

MRI

On MRI, mediastinitis is characterized by mediastinal or hilar mass or soft-tissue attenuation. Pattern of involvement is essentially similar to CT scan for mediastinitis.[15]

Other Imaging Findings

Other diagnostic studies for mediastinitis include positron emission tomography and fiberoptic bronchoscopy.[1]

Treatment

Medical Therapy

The mainstay of therapy in acute mediastinitis secondary to cardiothoracic surgery includes clindamycin and ceftriaxone. The preferred regimen for preoperative prophylaxis against acute mediastinitis includes either a second generation cephalosporin or vancomycin.

Surgical Therapy

Aggressive surgical debridement is recommended among patients when combined with broad spectrum antibiotics that provide coverage against MRSA, beta-lactamase producing gram-negative organisms, and anaerobes.

Prevention

Primary Prevention

Effective measures for the primary prevention of mediastinitis include nasal decolonization, hand hygiene, and antibiotic prophylaxis.

Secondary Prevention

Effective measures for the secondary prevention of mediastinitis following sternotomy include reporting wound discharge to physician and aggressive treatment of hyperglycemia.

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 Koksal D, Bayiz H, Mutluay N, Koyuncu A, Demirag F, Dagli G; et al. (2013). "Fibrosing mediastinitis mimicking bronchogenic carcinoma". J Thorac Dis. 5 (1): E5–7. doi:10.3978/j.issn.2072-1439.2012.07.03. PMC 3548007. PMID 23372962.
  2. 2.0 2.1 Abboud CS, Wey SB, Baltar VT (2004). "Risk factors for mediastinitis after cardiac surgery". Ann Thorac Surg. 77 (2): 676–83. doi:10.1016/S0003-4975(03)01523-6. PMID 14759458.
  3. Mediastinitis: a potentially lethal infection. Thoracics (2012). http://thoracics.org/2012/03/03/mediastinitis-noncardiac-surgery/ Accessed on September 25, 2015.
  4. Lewandowski B, Pakla P, Wołek W, Jednakiewicz M, Nicpoń J (2014). "A fatal case of descending necrotizing mediastinitis as a complication of odontogenic infection. A case report". Kardiochir Torakochirurgia Pol. 11 (3): 324–8. doi:10.5114/kitp.2014.45685. PMC 4283893. PMID 26336443.
  5. 5.0 5.1 Acute Mediastinitis Following a Laparotomy for Small Bowel Obstruction. Journal of Current Surgery (2014) http://jcs.elmerpress.com/index.php/jcs/article/view/252 Accessed on September 28, 2015
  6. 6.0 6.1 The Lancet. Google Books (2015). https://books.google.com/books?id=Zxw6AQAAMAAJ&pg=PA947&lpg=PA947&dq=the+lancet+mediastinitis+1896&source=bl&ots=izLFx5SXRB&sig=mXN15zc74xrPIn00rWnfoZ_NQ9Y&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0CB0Q6AEwAGoVChMIgPPf0aiByAIVAW0-Ch3LpgUe#v=onepage&q=lancet%20mediastinitis%201896&f=false Accessed on September 18, 2015
  7. Mediastinitis. Wikipedia (2015) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediastinitis Accessed on September 21, 2015
  8. Mandell GL. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. Churchill Livingstone; 2010.
  9. Histopathologic Overlap between Fibrosing Mediastinitis and IgG4-Related Disease. International Journal of Rheumatology (2012). http://www.hindawi.com/journals/ijr/2012/207056/ Accessed on September 25, 2015
  10. Konvalinka A, Erret L, Fong IW (2006). "Impact of treating Staphylococcus aureus nasal carreiers on wound infections in cardiac surgery". J Hosp Infect. 64 (2): 162–8. PMID 16930768.
  11. 11.0 11.1 Martínez Vallina P, Espinosa Jiménez D, Hernández Pérez L, Triviño Ramírez A (2011). "[Mediastinitis]". Arch Bronconeumol. 47 Suppl 8: 32–6. doi:10.1016/S0300-2896(11)70065-5. PMID 23351519.
  12. Kang DW, Canzian M, Beyruti R, Jatene FB (2006). "Sclerosing mediastinitis in the differential diagnosis of mediastinal tumors". J Bras Pneumol. 32 (1): 78–83. PMID 17273573.
  13. Risk factors for mediastinitis after cardiac surgery – a retrospective analysis of 1700 patients. Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery (2007). http://www.cardiothoracicsurgery.org/content/2/1/23 Accessed on September 21, 2015
  14. CDC/NHSN Surveillance Definitions for Specific Types of Infections. CDC (2015). http://www.cdc.gov/nhsn/PDFs/pscManual/17pscNosInfDef_current.pdf Accessed on September 21, 2015
  15. 15.0 15.1 Fibrosing mediastinitis. Radiopedia.org (2015) http://radiopaedia.org/articles/fibrosing-mediastinitis Accessed on October 2, 2015


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