A dark horse
The newborn is born functionally immature. It takes time for all of its systems and bodies to form and begin to work "in an adult way." However, thymus crumbs from the first days of life are ready to immediately perform their functions. The life of the thymus is short. The maximum activity he manifests during the first 3-5 years. After serving, this organ undergoes reverse development, or involution. So, by the age of 20, half of the thymus is replaced by fat tissue, and by the 50th the thymus involution in the body is completely completed. Thymus is not so easy to see. It is located behind the breastbone. The boundaries of this organ can be considered only in childhood using an X-ray or ultrasound.
A huge role
Thymus, or thymus gland is the central organ of the immune system. Its role is to form an army of defenders that can protect the body from infection without damaging its own structures. Part of the lymphocytes (white blood cells) is called T-lymphocytes for good reason: the so-called lymphocytes that have been trained in the thymus. Once in the blood, these cells are able to distinguish the alien protein (pathogen) and begin to fight with it, that is, thanks to the thymus, immunity is formed. The fact that it is more difficult for adults to tolerate banal childhood infections (measles, rubella, chickenpox, etc.) is due to the lack of a training role for the thymus at a respectable age.
When they talk about thymus
As a rule, Mom learns about the existence of this organ by accident. For example, the X-ray, conducted on other indications, suddenly revealed that the boundaries of the thymus are more than normal. What should mom do? First of all, it is necessary to talk with the pediatrician about the detected thymomegaly. There is a version that a slight increase in the thymus for children is considered normal. To a temporary increase in the thymus gland can lead to acute viral infections (was not the baby sick recently?). The infections that mother suffered during pregnancy are also often provoked by thymomegaly. In case of controversial questions regarding the condition of the thymus gland, contact the immunologist. After examining the baby, if there are suspicions of a malfunction in the thymus, the doctor will prescribe a follow-up examination: an immunological blood test.
The problem is obvious
Do colds and viruses continually chase crumbs? The reason is often hidden in violations of the formation of immunity. And the direct culprit can be a thymus. For example, thymomegaly is not only a companion, but also the main symptom of lymphatic-hyperplastic diathesis. Such a diathesis is not a disease, but a peculiarity of the structure of the baby's organism, its constitution. Thus, it can be noted that large children, with a pronounced subcutaneous fat layer and blond hairs, are often ill with SARS. These young lupus are enlarged lymph nodes even in the absence of disease. In this situation, one can suspect an increase in the thymus.
Be vigilant
We often take care of the crumbs ourselves. However, if you notice that it is not possible to cope with a cold or an allergy, be sure to consult a pediatrician.
What should mom do?
A crumb with an enlarged thymus needs not only medical supervision and treatment - the mother must create certain conditions for him. It's simple! Observe the regime of the day: the baby must get enough sleep. Avoid unnecessary contacts, especially during the ARVI season. Be sure to walk several times a day. Follow the diet of the baby. Food should be vitaminized, but without unnecessary allergens. Exclude sausage products, sweets, semi-finished products. It will be very good if you take charge and tempering procedures. Before the release, put on the mucous membrane of a small spout oksolinovuyu ointment. Do not use your own medications from the immunity level! Be guided only by the appointment of a doctor.