CTICasesBeta Thalassemia Extramedullary Hematopoiesis
Imaging findings
Chest CT shows lobulated, paraspinal, and posterior mediastinal soft tissue masses (extramedullary hematopoiesis). The posterior ribs show dilated marrow cavities and a classic flaky trabecular pattern. The patient has a dilated cardiomyopathy with an ICD and splenomegaly.
Key takeaways
Chronic severe anemias like beta thalassemia lead to massive marrow hyperplasia (dilating the ribs and bones) and extramedullary hematopoiesis. This manifests as paraspinal masses that can mimic tumors but require no biopsy.
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