Thymoma
Pronunciation: thy-MOH-mah
A tumor of the thymus gland strongly associated with myasthenia gravis. Requires staging and multidisciplinary management including potential thymectomy.
Full Definition
Thymoma is a primary neoplasm arising from the epithelial cells of the thymus gland, most commonly diagnosed in adults aged 40-60 years. Approximately 50% of thymoma patients develop myasthenia gravis, while conversely, 10-15% of myasthenia gravis patients have thymoma. These tumors are classified according to the World Health Organization system (types A, AB, B1, B2, B3) and staged using the Masaoka-Koga system. Treatment typically involves surgical resection when feasible, often combined with radiation therapy or chemotherapy depending on stage and invasiveness. The presence of thymoma significantly influences the management of associated myasthenia gravis.
Usage
Usage note: Always assess for myasthenia gravis in thymoma patients. Include WHO type and Masaoka stage when known.
In Context
- "CT chest revealed a 4.5 cm anterior mediastinal mass consistent with thymoma, prompting evaluation for myasthenia gravis." — Radiology report
- "The patient underwent thymectomy for WHO type B2 thymoma with significant improvement in myasthenic symptoms postoperatively." — Surgical follow-up