"It is a tumor of the thymus gland. It lies between the sternum and the upper part of the heart, adjacent to the great vessels that come out of the heart."
Definition of Thymoma
It is a tumor of the thymus gland. It lies between the sternum and the upper part of the heart, adjacent to the large blood vessels coming out of the heart.
It is classified as A, AB, B1, B2, B3 and C thymoma. They are usually resectable, that is, removable tumors. They may be associated with other diseases or cause other diseases. Almost every stage of the disease is resolved with surgical treatment. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy can be added to these treatments.
Types of Thymoma
Different types of thymoma require different clinical presentations and treatment strategies.
- • Type A thymoma: Morphologically involves a single cell type.
- • Type AB Thymoma: Contains both epithelioid (A) and lymphocytic (B) components.
- • Type B1, B2, B3 Thymoma: These types are classified according to the degree of thymus gland cells.
- • Type C Thymoma: The most aggressive type showing features of carcinoma.
Symptoms of Thymoma
Depending on the stage and extent of the disease, symptoms may vary.In the early stage, it is usually asymptomatic. Symptoms can sometimes include cough, shortness of breath and chest pain. In the advanced stage, symptoms may include chest pain, hoarseness, swelling of the face and neck. Sometimes systemic (involving the whole body) and complicated findings caused by the disease can also be seen.
Thymoma is directly related to some autoimmune diseases. It is especially related to diseases such as Myasthenia Gravis, which is characterized by neuromuscular disorders and musculoskeletal disorders.
In some cases, it may also be associated with blood diseases.
Causes of Thymoma
The exact causes of thymoma are still unclear.
Genetic Factors
Family history may play a role in the development of the disease.
Environmental Factors
Long-term radiation exposure, inhalation of certain chemicals can increase the risk.
Other Possible Causes
Viral infections or chronic inflammatory processes.
Diagnostic Methods
Accurate diagnosis of thymoma is critical for directing the patient to the appropriate treatment plan. Radiological examinations such as CT and MRI are used to determine the location and size of the thymoma and its relationship with neighboring structures. Therefore, the decision on surgical removability can be made with these. Biopsy is the process of taking a tissue sample from the tumor before surgery to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options
The treatment approach is determined depending on the stage of the disease, the patient’s general state of health and the type of tumor.
Surgical Intervention
Whenever possible, the primary treatment is to remove the entire tumor.
Radiotherapy
It aims to kill tumor cells with high-energy radiation.
Chemotherapy
Medication is used to prevent or slow down the growth of cancer cells.
Is Thymoma Surgery Possible with VATS?
Yes, it is usually possible. Especially stage 1-2 thymoma surgery can be easily performed with the help of an endoscopic camera and endoscopic instruments entered between the ribs. The procedure usually takes 1-3 hours and discharge is usually planned in 3 days.
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