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Michael P. D'Alessandro, M.D.
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed
Etiology/Pathophysiology:
Not applicable
Pathology:
Not applicable
Imaging Findings:
The thymus is a thin, bilobed organ located in the superior
mediastinum that has a variable size and shape. The thymus lies
anteriorly in relationship to the heart and great vessels. The
relative size of the thymus increases with expiration and decreases
with inspiration. The thymus decreases in size during periods of
stress, such as during sepsis. Occasionally the thymus may extend
inferiorly to the level of the diaphragm.
Thymic contour is variable. Because the
thymus is a soft organ, overlying ribs may indent it, causing a
"wave" sign. 
The right lobe of the thymus can
insinuate into the minor fissure, causing a "sail" sign.
DDX:
References:
See References Chapter.
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