Computerized tomography diagnosis of cavernous thymus hemangioma and differentiation from other mediastinal hemangiomas

A case of cavernous haemangioma of the thymus is reported, including the findings of conventional X-ray imaging, computed tomography, surgery and histology. In addition, the literature of thymic angiomatous mesenchymomas as well as of mediastinal haemangiomas is reviewed. The tumour of a 29-year old and asymptomatic woman was located in the anterior mediastinal compartment at the site of the left thymic lobe. The tumour contained phleboliths and was surrounded by a small capsule of fat. After bolus infusion of contrast agent a delay of enhancement could be detected by CT, which led to the diagnosis. Due to the fact that the status of thymic tumours must assessed with special care, operation and histologic investigation were required. Thymic haemangiomas in contrast to other mediastinal haemangiomas are most amenable to surgical treatment. One year after surgery the patient is still in good health without evidence of tumour regrowth.