[Lymph node metastases--diagnosis by lymphography and CT (author's transl)].
The value of lymphography and CT in the diagnosis of abdominal lymph node metastases was compared in 82 patients with various types of malignant disease. In the presence of systemic disease or testicular tumours, CT increased the recognition of lymph node metastases and their extent, particularly of high para-aortic deposits which were frequently underestimated by lymphography. Lymph nodes in the pelvis are more easily identified. CT is the first choice for the investigation of systemic disease and testicular tumours. This will, in addition, also demonstrate abnormalities of the organs and assist in radiation planning. CT is a simple procedure which is also very valuable in following the effect of treatment. For metastases from other origins, lymphography is often more valuable since CT is unable to identify metastases in lymph nodes if these are not enlarged. The two methods complement each other and their combination provides improved diagnostic information.