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Atypical cervical ectopic thymus located in the submandibular space: a case report
Emma Liaci1, Marcello Napolitano2, Camilla Viglio3
1Department of Pediatric Radiology and Neuroradiology, V. Buzzi Children's Hospital, Milan, Italy. emma.liaci@unimi.it.
Journal of Ultrasound
|September 20, 2025
Summary
Ectopic thymic tissue, a rare cause of neck masses in infants, can be diagnosed using ultrasound. This imaging technique helps differentiate it from other pediatric neck masses, avoiding unnecessary procedures.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Head and Neck Pathology
Background:
- Ectopic thymic tissue is an uncommon congenital anomaly.
- Lateral neck masses in infants can present diagnostic challenges.
- Differentiating benign from malignant neck masses is crucial in pediatric care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a case of ectopic thymic tissue in an infant.
- To emphasize the role of ultrasound in diagnosing pediatric neck masses.
- To highlight the benefits of ultrasound in avoiding unnecessary invasive procedures.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 3-month-old male infant with a left submandibular mass.
- Diagnostic imaging utilizing ultrasound.
- Clinical correlation and follow-up.
Main Results:
- Ultrasound successfully identified the submandibular mass as ectopic thymic tissue.
- The diagnosis was confirmed without the need for further invasive imaging or procedures.
- The infant presented with a painless mass.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasound is a valuable, non-invasive tool for diagnosing ectopic thymic tissue in infants.
- Early and accurate diagnosis with ultrasound can prevent unnecessary interventions and complications.
- Ectopic thymic tissue should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pediatric lateral neck masses.
