Pitfalls in Oncologic Imaging of the Pericardium on CT and PET/CT

In the oncologic setting, misinterpretation of fluid in pericardial recesses as mediastinal adenopathy or benign pericardial findings as malignant can lead to inaccurate staging and inappropriate management. Knowledge of normal pericardial anatomy, imaging features to differentiate fluid in pericardial sinuses and recesses from mediastinal adenopathy and potential pitfalls in imaging of the pericardium on CT and PET/CT is important to avoid misinterpretation.