Thymoma; clinical presentations, pathology, and prognostic factors – a surgery point of view

Abstract

Thymomas are rare tumors that can present with a wide range of clinical characteristics. The presence of symptoms and paraneoplastic syndromes, such as myasthenia gravis, along with the histological subtype and stage of the tumor, are important factors that guide the treatment approach and prognosis for patients with thymomas. The prognosis for thymoma varies depending on several factors, including the stage and type of the tumor, as well as the presence of associated autoimmune diseases. Generally, early-stage thymomas have a better prognosis compared to advanced-stage tumors. Regular follow-up with a multidisciplinary team, including oncologists and thoracic surgeons, is essential for long-term management and surveillance of patients.

Keywords: Thymoma, Outcomes, Epithelial cells, Autoimmune disease, Myasthenia gravis, Paraneoplastic syndrome, Pure red cell aplasia, Malignancy, Surgery