Thymomas and thymic carcinomas: Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

J Natl Compr Canc Netw. 2013 May 1;11(5):562-76. doi: 10.6004/jnccn.2013.0072.

Abstract

Masses in the anterior mediastinum can be neoplasms (eg, thymomas, thymic carcinomas, or lung metastases) or non-neoplastic conditions (eg, intrathoracic goiter). Thymomas are the most common primary tumor in the anterior mediastinum, although they are rare. Thymic carcinomas are very rare. Thymomas and thymic carcinomas originate in the thymus. Although thymomas can spread locally, they are much less invasive than thymic carcinomas. Patients with thymomas have 5-year survival rates of approximately 78%. However, 5-year survival rates for thymic carcinomas are only approximately 40%. These guidelines outline the evaluation, treatment, and management of these mediastinal tumors.

Publication types

  • Practice Guideline

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Thymoma / diagnosis*
  • Thymoma / therapy*
  • Thymus Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Thymus Neoplasms / therapy*