A Tour of the Thymus: A Review of Thymic Lesions with Radiologic and Pathologic Correlation. Issue 1 (February 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Goldstein, Alan J.; Oliva, Isabel; Honarpisheh, Hedieh; Rubinowitz, Ami
• Is Part Of: Canadian Association of Radiologists journal. Volume 66:Issue 1(2015)
• Page Start: 5
• Page End: 15
• Publication Date: 2015-02
• Subjects: Thymus -- Thymic mass -- Thymic tumour -- Thymic lesion; Radiology, Medical -- Periodicals; Radiology, Medical -- Canada -- Periodicals; 616.0757
• DOI: 10.1016/j.carj.2013.09.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0846-5371

Abstract

The thymus is routinely encountered on cross-sectional imaging studies of the chest. It has a variable appearance, undergoes dynamic changes during periods of stress, and demonstrates numerous different pathologic lesions. Understanding the imaging characteristics of these different lesions facilitates accurate radiographic diagnosis and can prevent unnecessary follow-up imaging and intervention. This article will review normal thymic anatomy and development, thymic hyperplasia and associated medical conditions, and the imaging and pathologic features of various benign and malignant thymic lesions.