CTICasesThalassemia and Extramedullary Hematopoiesis
Imaging findings
Paraspinal masses (often bilateral) and splenomegaly. Vertebral bodies and ribs show marrow expansion with a speckled or granular appearance. Skull radiography may demonstrate a "hair on end" appearance due to marrow hyperplasia. Later stages or treated cases may show fatty replacement of these soft tissue masses.
Key takeaways
Extramedullary hematopoiesis acts as a compensatory mechanism for anemia in thalassemia. The masses are typically soft and may contain fat, distinguishing them from firmer masses like schwannomas. They can regress with effective treatment for the underlying hematological condition.
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