An unusual anterior mediastinal mass in a child with B-Thalassemia major

Abstract

This case report describes the delayed appearance of Morgagni's hernia in a 5 year old child with B-Thalassemia major to present as an anterior mediastinal mass. The progressive enlargement of the liver resulted in herniation of the left lobe of the liver through the already congenitally present Morgagni's hernia leading to its enlargement. The report also emphasizes the fact that a previously normal chest x-ray should not preclude the diagnosis of Morgagni's hernia. Morgagni's hernia should also be included in the differential diagnosis of anterior mediastinal masses in children.