The generation of B-cell responses to proteins requires a functional thymus to produce CD4(+) T cells which helps in the activation and differentiation of B cells. Because the mature T-cell repertoire has abundant cells with the helper phenotype, one might predict that in mature individuals, the generation of B-cell memory would proceed independently of the thymus. Contrary to that prediction,...

Benign thymic hyperplasia (BTH) is a known feature of hyperthyroidism, but is infrequently appreciated by clinicians. In most cases thymic enlargement is minimal; however, it may occasionally present as an appreciable anterior mediastinal mass. While surgical resection is a common approach to such a mass, recognition of the benign nature of BTH and its regression following treatment of hyperthy...