Cancer of thymus, also known as thymoma, refers to a rare type of cancer that originates in the thymus gland. The thymus is a small organ located behind the breastbone and plays a vital role in the immune system, particularly in the development of T-lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that helps protect the body against infections.
Thymomas are abnormal, cancerous growths that occur within the cells of the thymus gland. They can vary in size, ranging from small masses to larger tumors, and have the potential to invade nearby tissues or spread to distant organs, becoming malignant.
The exact cause of thymic cancer is still unknown, but it is believed to be associated with genetic mutations or abnormalities in the DNA of the thymus cells. Thymomas are often diagnosed incidentally during routine medical examinations or investigations for unrelated conditions, as they may not cause noticeable symptoms in early stages.
Common symptoms of cancer of thymus may include chest pain, coughing, difficulty breathing, fatigue, weight loss, and occasionally, myasthenia gravis, a muscular disorder. Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI, and a biopsy of the thymus tissue.
Treatment options for thymomas may vary depending on the stage, location, and extent of the tumor, as well as individual factors. They commonly involve surgical removal of the cancerous tissue, sometimes followed by radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Follow-up care and lifelong monitoring are important to detect any potential recurrence or spread of the cancer.
