Key points about thymoma
- Thymoma is a rare tumor that starts in the thymus gland in the upper chest
- It often grows slowly and may not cause symptoms at first
- Can be linked to autoimmune diseases like myasthenia gravis
- Diagnosis usually involves imaging tests and a biopsy
- Treatment often includes surgery, and sometimes radiation or chemotherapy
Thymoma causes
The exact cause of thymoma is not known. It begins when cells in the thymus grow out of control. This can happen for no clear reason, but may be linked to:
- Autoimmune diseases
- Abnormal immune system activity
Thymoma risk factors
You’re more likely to develop thymoma if you:
- Are between the ages of 40 and 70
- Have myasthenia gravis or another autoimmune disease
- Have a personal or family history of thymus disorders
Thymoma symptoms
Thymoma may cause:
- Chest pain or tightness
- Long-lasting cough
- Trouble breathing
- Swelling in the face, neck, or chest
- Muscle weakness, especially in the arms or legs
Thymoma diagnosis
To diagnose thymoma, doctors may use:
- Chest X-rays or CT scans
- MRI to see more detail
- Biopsy to confirm the type of tumor
- Blood tests to look for autoimmune issues
Thymoma treatment
Treatment depends on the size and stage of the tumor. It may include:
- Surgery to remove the thymus gland (thymectomy)
- Radiation therapy to destroy any leftover cancer cells
- Chemotherapy for tumors that are large or have spread
- Medicines to manage autoimmune conditions
When to seek care
Talk to your doctor if you:
- Have chest pain or pressure that doesn’t go away
- Notice swelling in your face or neck
- Feel weak or tired without a clear reason
- Have trouble breathing or a cough that lasts for weeks