[Case report of a cervical thoracic duct cyst].

After a number of anatomical considerations regarding the thoracic duct and the diseases that may affect it, the authors report that, in the literature, such cystic lesions of an iatrogenic nature are extremely rare in the cervical area. After discussing the diagnostic methods for a correct preoperative diagnosis, they address the surgical technique they used for removal of the lesion.

[Substernal goiter: pre-, intra- and postoperative problems].

The Authors report their experience with problems in treating substernal goiter. They then explain at length the complex haemodynamic or respiratory situations encountered and the therapeutic management of the condition. Also discussed are technical surgical problems, and the prevention and therapy of possible complications.

Pleural effusion as a complication of intrathoracic goitre.

The authors report their experience with a case of bilateral pleural effusions as a complication of intrathoracic goitre. They then go on to examine all the possible causes of this phenomenon. After discussing the anatomy of the superior mediastinum, they conclude that hydrothorax related to intrathoracic goitre could be the result of pressure of the mass on venous structures, especially on the superior vena cava, or on the intramediastinal lymphatic vessles, or, as in the case reported, on both.

Warthin's tumour of the parotid gland.

The authors, after examining two recent cases, explain a number of basic concepts regarding the diagnosis and therapy of Warthin's tumour of the parotid gland. Despite their low frequency, such tumours are very important because of their aetiopathogenesis, which is still controversial, and the recent increase in their incidence in females. Today, the diagnostic protocol, undertaken after the necessary clinical examination, relies mainly on ultrasonography and CT, but only a postoperative histological examination is capable of yielding a sure diagnosis and establishing the main histomorphological characteristics of the tumour.