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Multidetector Computed Tomographic Evaluation of the Normal Characteristics of the Thymus in the Pediatric Population
1Department of Radiology, University of Health Sciences Dr. Behçet Uz Child Disease and Pediatric Surgery Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey.
Insights
This study details normal thymus morphology and measurements in children up to 18 years using multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT). Findings aid in accurate diagnosis, preventing unnecessary interventions for pediatric thymic imaging.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Radiology
- Thoracic Imaging
- Anatomy
Background:
- The thymus plays a crucial role in the immune system.
- Accurate assessment of thymic morphology is essential for pediatric diagnosis.
- Variations in thymic appearance can mimic pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish normative morphologic features and measurements of the normal thymus in children.
- To utilize contrast-enhanced multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) for thymic evaluation.
- To define thymic characteristics across different age groups from neonates to 18 years.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 464 pediatric MDCT scans.
- Evaluation of thymic shape, margins, side predominance, density, and dimensions.
- Stratification of thymic measurements by age group.
Main Results:
- Triangular thymic shape with median location and straight lateral contours were most common.
- Transverse diameter and lobe dimensions decreased with age; anteroposterior diameter showed no significant age association.
- Mean thymic measurements (anteroposterior, transverse, lobe dimensions) were established.
Conclusions:
- This research provides a comprehensive understanding of normal thymic imaging in children.
- The findings assist in differentiating normal thymic variations from pathology.
- Accurate reference data can reduce misdiagnosis and unnecessary procedures in pediatric thoracic imaging.
Objectives:
The objective of the present study was to determine the morphologic features and measurements of the normal thymus on contrast-enhanced multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) in subjects from the newborn period up to 18 years of age.
Materials And Methods:
The MDCT scans obtained from 464 children with a mean age ± SD of 8.43 ± 5.60 years were retrospectively re-evaluated. The shape, margins, side predominance, density, and measurements of the thymic gland were defined for each age group.
Results:
A triangular thymic shape with a middle location and straight lateral contours were the most frequently seen morphologic features in children. The mean anteroposterior and transverse diameter of the thymus was 17.32 ± 4.58 and 29.99 ± 11.42 mm, respectively. The mean values for the width and thickness were 20.66 ± 5.36 and 15.15 ± 6.76 mm for the right thymic lobe, respectively; and 26.14 ± 7.85 and 14.91 ± 5.51 mm for the left, respectively. The transverse diameter of the thymus and thymic lobe dimensions decreased significantly with age, however, the anteroposterior diameter of the thymus was not significantly associated with age. Girls had higher mean thymic attenuation values compared to boys, however, this gender difference was not statistically significant (63.8 ± 22.4 HU vs. 60.1 ± 25.3, p = 0.164).
Conclusion:
Our study provides a better understanding of the normal thymic appearances in children that can aid in accurate diagnosis and avoid unnecessary, costly, and invasive interventions.
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