The imaging characteristics of thymic neuroendocrine carcinoma(report of five cases)

WANG　Dong－bao; ZHANG　Ai-bing; LAI　Can

Journal of China Clinic Medical Imaging ›› 2007, Vol. 18 ›› Issue (1) : 46-49.

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The imaging characteristics of thymic neuroendocrine carcinoma(report of five cases)

WANG　Dong－bao1, ZHANG　Ai-bing1, LAI　Can2

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Abstract

Objective: To enhance the recognition of imaging of thymic neuroendocrine carcinoma(TNC). Materials and Methods: The imaging signs of five cases of TNC verified by pathology were analysed retrospectively, including five cases of CT examination and two cases of MR examination. Results: Large substantial mass can be seen in all five cases, vegetated ipsilaterally or bilaterally, mainly located in the antero-superior mediastinum. The vessel or the structure adjacent to the mass were wrapped and infiltrated. The density or intensity of the mass is homogeneous or non-homogeneous on CT/MR scan with slightly or moderately enhanced after the injection of contrast-enhanced medium. Ratio of necrotic area to the mass is low. Satellite-like hypo-intensity can be seen in two cases on MR imaging. Mediastinal lymph nodes enlargement can be seen in all cases, nodules seen in one side or both sides of lung field in four cases, pleural effusion seen in two cases. Conclusion: Large mass, low necrotic area ratio and infiltration/metastases were more likely to be seen in TNC. Combined with clinics, these imaging features are helpful to the diagnosis of TNC.

Key words

thymus neoplasms / carcinoma / neuroendocrine / tomography / X-ray computed / magnetic resonance imaging

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WANG　Dong－bao;ZHANG　Ai-bing;LAI　Can. The imaging characteristics of thymic neuroendocrine carcinoma(report of five cases)[J]. Journal of China Clinic Medical Imaging. 2007, 18(1): 46-49