Location
The thymus is anatomically located relatively centrally behind the upper part of the sternum. The position of the thymus is then virtually on top of the large venous and arterial blood vessels, which originate from or flow into the heart directly at this point. The position of the thymus is further limited by connective tissue plates, which divide the inner part of the chest into different areas.
Since the thymus is considerably larger in young years than in adulthood, the extent of the thymus can vary somewhat. Nevertheless, the position between the breastbone and the large blood vessels, and in some cases the pericardium, is usually maintained for life. In order to determine the approximate position of the thymus, you can start with your fingers from the collarbone and feel your way forward to the sternum and then down along the sternum with about one hand.
Thymectomy
Surgical removal of the thymus (thymectomy) would result in the child’s immune system not being sufficiently developed. However, this method is used for the clinical picture of myasthenia gravis. This is based on an autoimmune reaction against receptors at the neuromuscular end plate of the muscles, which leads to progressive muscle weakness.About half of the patients with myasthenia gravis show an enlargement of the thymus, which can be accompanied by a thymoma (usually a benign tumor of the thymus). Since the tumor cells possess antigens similar to the muscle receptor, the autoimmune response is enhanced. Therefore, surgical removal of the thymus usually significantly alleviates the patients’ symptoms.
Tap the thymus
If one has the feeling that one is increasingly flabby, tired or exhausted, a new method allows one to activate the thymus by tapping on it, thus providing more energy and a strengthened immune system. This can be explained, for example, by increased blood circulation. Tapping on the thymus can be repeated once or several times a day as desired.
While maintaining an upright posture, locate the middle of the sternum in the midline and tap lightly with your fist or fingertips either on this one spot or in circular movements around it. How often or how long you tap the thymus in an exercise can be varied individually according to the effect. However, half a minute to a full minute is recommended. You can also try to relax by closing your eyes or by breathing in and out deeply.
