Mediastinitis
Alternate Names : Chest infection
Definition
Mediastinitis is swelling and irritation (inflammation) of the area between the lungs (mediastinum). This area contains the heart, large blood vessels, windpipe (trachea), esophagus, thymus gland, lymph nodes, and connective tissues.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Mediastinitis may occur suddenly (acute) or may develop slowly and get worse over time (chronic). Most cases occur in patients who have had open chest surgery. Less than 5 percent of patients develop mediastinitis after having chest surgery. Patients may have a tear in their esophagus that causes mediastinitis. Causes of the tear include:
Other causes of mediastinitis include: Risk factors include: - Problems in the upper gastrointestinal tract
- Recent chest surgery or endoscopy
- Weak immune system
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