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Thymic Hyperplasia / Ectopic Thymus

Thymic Hyperplasia / Ectopic Thymus▶ Watch on YouTube — age-restricted, cannot embed here

Imaging findings

Subtle abnormal interface and increased attenuation in the paratracheal mediastinum on chest radiographs. CT shows a large thymus extending between vessels up to the thoracic inlet, appearing uniform in attenuation, consistent with thymic hyperplasia. Its unusual extent raised concern for lymphoma or lymphangioma, prompting a suggestion for MRI.

Key takeaways

Large or unusually shaped thymus, potentially extending into the thoracic inlet, can be a subtle finding on chest radiographs. While often representing benign thymic hyperplasia or ectopic thymus, its atypical appearance may warrant further imaging (e.g., MRI) to differentiate from other mediastinal masses like lymphoma or lymphangioma.

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