Anatomic location and age-related changes in the chinchilla thymus
Cartee, R.E.
American Journal of Veterinary Research 40(4): 537-540
1979
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9645 PMID: 517827 Document Number: 152417
In 28 chinchillas from 2 weeks to 8 years old, the thymus was located in the cranial end of the thorax, around the base of the heart and extended half the distance from the base to the apex on the ventral surface. Histologically, there was less thymic tissue in older than in younger chinchillas. Lymphocyte concentration within medullary centers of the older chinchillas was less than that of the younger animals. Lymphocytopoietic activity was evident in the oldest animals studied. Thymic mass (thymus plus adipose tissue) was greatest in the older chinchillas.