Atrial masses on multidetector computed tomography

Incidental atrial filling defect on multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is an important radiological finding, as irrespective of its nature, it may nevertheless be of considerable importance for correct diagnostic workup. MDCT is not the first-line imaging technique of choice for characterization of intra-atrial masses, but is a commonly performed examination and hence offers the opportunity to pick up hitherto unsuspected atrial lesions. This review highlights key CT imaging features that help to differentiate normal variants and artefacts from a true abnormality, distinguish benign from malignant intra-atrial tumours, and characterize non-neoplastic atrial masses.