Thymoma and thymic carcinoma are rare cancers that develop in the thymus gland, a small organ located behind the breastbone. Although uncommon, these cancers can be serious and may cause symptoms due to pressure on nearby structures or due to associated autoimmune conditions.

What Are Thymoma and Thymic Carcinoma?

• Thymoma: A slow-growing tumor originating from thymic epithelial cells. Often linked with autoimmune disorders like myasthenia gravis.

• Thymic Carcinoma: A more aggressive and fast-growing cancer with a higher chance of spreading.

Both conditions require expert evaluation and a tailored treatment approach.

Who Is at Risk?

Although rare, the following may increase the risk:

• Age between 40–70 years

• Autoimmune diseases (most commonly myasthenia gravis)

• History of radiation to the chest (less common)

• Genetic predisposition (rare)

Signs & Symptoms

Many patients have no symptoms initially. When present, symptoms may include:

• Persistent cough

• Chest pain

• Shortness of breath

• Hoarseness

• Difficulty swallowing

• Swelling of the face or neck (SVC syndrome)

• Muscle weakness (due to myasthenia gravis)

Early diagnosis significantly improves outcomes.

Associated Autoimmune Conditions

Thymoma is frequently associated with:

• Myasthenia gravis (most common)

• Pure red cell aplasia

• Hypogammaglobulinemia

• Thyroid disorders

Evaluation for underlying autoimmune disease is essential for comprehensive care.

Diagnosis of Thymoma & Thymic Cancer

At I D Cancer Center, diagnosis is carried out using advanced tools:

1. Chest CT Scan

The most important tool for identifying the tumor and extent of disease.

2. MRI

Useful for assessing invasion into surrounding structures.

3. PET-CT Scan

Helps detect spread to distant organs and lymph nodes.

4. Biopsy

Tissue sampling confirms the diagnosis and differentiates thymoma from thymic carcinoma.

5. Autoimmune Tests

Performed to detect associated conditions like myasthenia gravis.

Staging of Thymic Tumors

Staging helps determine treatment:

• Stage I: Tumor confined to thymus

• Stage II: Local spread into surrounding tissues

• Stage III: Invasion into lungs, heart, or major vessels

• Stage IV: Spread to distant tissues or throughout the chest

Higher stages may require combined treatment approaches.

Treatment Options at I D Cancer Center

We offer comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for thymic cancers.

1. Surgery (Primary Treatment)

2. Radiation Therapy (IMRT / VMAT / IGRT / Adaptive Radiotherapy)

Radiotherapy is recommended:

• After surgery for incomplete removal

• For aggressive tumors (thymic carcinoma)

• When surgery is not possible

At I D Cancer Center, we use IMRT, VMAT, IGRT and Adaptive Radiotherapy to deliver highly precise radiation while protecting the heart, lungs, and esophagus.

3. Chemotherapy

Used in:

• Thymic carcinoma

• Advanced or unresectable tumors

• As neoadjuvant therapy (to shrink tumor before surgery)

Common regimens include:

• Cisplatin + Doxorubicin + Cyclophosphamide (CAP regimen)

• Carboplatin + Paclitaxel

Chemotherapy improves tumor control and survival in select patients.

4. Immunotherapy

For metastatic or recurrent thymic carcinoma, immunotherapy (e.g., PD-1 inhibitors) may be used under strict monitoring.

5. Management of Autoimmune Disorders

Team-based management is provided for:

• Myasthenia gravis

• Blood disorders

• Immune deficiencies

This ensures complete and integrated care.