2091841 Cervical Thymic Anomalies: a Pictorial Review

Abstract

- To review the imaging findings of the ectopic cervical thymic tissue, anomalies related to thymoparyngeal remnants and the superior cervical extension of the thymus. - To help viewers differentiate these entities from other cervical lesions. The exhibit will review the embryological development of the thymus (the origin in the third pharyngeal pouch, the thymopharyngeal duct and its descend path from the angle of mandible to the superior mediastinum) and the appearance of cervicl thymic anomalies at US imaging. The exhibit will show examples of ectopic cervical thymic tissue, anomalies related to thymoparyngeal remnants and the superior cervical extension of the thymus. Their most common differential diagnosis will be discussed aside with the management options. Cervical thymic anomalies are uncommon and are rarely considered in the differential of a neck mass. They are often identify during childhood and usually presents as asymptomatic nodule or neck swelling on routine examination. The thymus has a unique appearance at ultrasound allowing for an accurate diagnosis in most of the cases. Familiarity with the ultrasonographic appearance of the cervical thymic anomalies may help minimize invasive procedures, especially in children. This entity should be included in the differential diagnosis of infantile neck masses to prevent inadvertent total thymectomy.