Superior Herniation of Normal Mediastinal Thymus

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Radiology
• Neonatology

Background:

• Superior herniation of mediastinal thymus is a rare cause of anterior neck swelling.
• It presents as a suprasternal swelling, often exacerbated by increased intrathoracic pressure.

Observation:

• A three-week-old male neonate presented with anterior neck swelling and stridor.
• Clinical and radiological evaluation was performed to assess the cause of the swelling.

Findings:

• The neonate was diagnosed with superior herniation of the normal thymus.
• Ultrasound confirmed the diagnosis, identifying the herniated thymus as the source of the swelling.

Implications:

• Awareness of this rare condition can prevent unnecessary investigations and invasive procedures in neonates.
• Conservative management, guided by imaging, is effective for superior herniation of the thymus.
• This case highlights the importance of recognizing benign causes of neonatal neck masses.