Please note that some translations using Google Translate may not be accurately represented, and image captions and downloaded documents cannot be translated. Dana-Farber assumes no liability for inaccuracies that may result for using this third-party tool, which is for website translation and not clinical interactions. You may request a live medical interpreter for a discussion about your care.
Thymoma and thymic malignancies are diseases in which cancer cells form on the outside surfaces of the thymus. The thymus gland is a small organ that lies in the upper chest under the breastbone. It makes white blood cells, called lymphocytes, that protect the body against infections.
The tumor cells in a thymoma look like the normal cells of the thymus, grow slowly, and rarely spread beyond the thymus.
The tumor cells in a thymic carcinoma look very different from the normal cells of the thymus. They grow more quickly and have usually spread to other parts of the body when the cancer is found. Thymic carcinoma is harder to treat than thymoma.
Learn more about thymoma and thymic malignancies and find information on how we support and care for people with thymoma before, during, and after treatment.
The following information is from the National Cancer Institute.
Appointments and Second Opinions 877-442-3324
As a new Dana-Farber patient, find answers to questions about your first visit: what to bring, how to find us, where to park, and how to prepare.
We offer a wide range of services, from financial planning to creative arts to spiritual counsel, to support our patients through their cancer experiences.
