E32: Diseases of thymus

E32.8: Other diseases of thymus

The thymus gland is a small organ which forms part of the immune system. The thymus gland lies below the neck and is partly surrounded by the lungs. Immune cells mature in the thymus gland. The thymus gland is at its largest in children and adolescents. Later in life, the thymus gland gradually shrinks since it is no longer required.

Your thymus gland may be too large or too small. It is also possible that your thymus gland has not developed properly. If your thymus gland has not developed properly, your immune system may not be working correctly. In that case, you are missing certain defense cells. Your thymus gland may also be inflamed. There may also be bleeding in your thymus gland. Cavities can also form in the thymus gland.