Imaging Features of Ectopic Tissues and Their Complications: Embryologic and Anatomic Approach

Ectopic tissue is an anatomic abnormality in which tissue develops in an area outside its normal location. It is primarily caused by abnormalities during the process of embryologic development. Although the majority of individuals with ectopic tissues remain asymptomatic, various symptoms and associated complications can occur. Failure in normal embryologic development leads to loss of normal physiologic function or may result in harmful functions such as ectopic hormonal secretion in the ectopic pituitary adenoma. Ectopic tissues may also frequently mimic tumors. For example, developmental abnormalities in the pharyngeal pouches may result in an ectopic parathyroid gland and ectopic thymus, both of which are frequently misdiagnosed as tumors. Adequate knowledge of embryology is essential for understanding the differential diagnoses of ectopic tissues and facilitating appropriate management. The authors summarize the embryologic development and pathogenesis of ectopic tissues by using illustrations to facilitate a deeper understanding of embryologic development and anatomy. Characteristic imaging findings (US, CT, MRI, and scintigraphy) are described for ectopic tissues of the brain, head, neck, thorax, abdomen, and pelvis by focusing on common conditions that radiologists may encounter in daily practice and their differential diagnoses. ^©RSNA, 2023 Quiz questions for this article are available through the Online Learning Center.