How to Remove a Thymoma
Located above your heart is a small organ known as the thymus. Thymoma tumors develop when cancerous cells form within the thymus. Cancerous cells of the thymus rarely metastasize to other locations in the body. Thymoma cancer is difficult to diagnose as the disease doesn't always produce symptoms. Your physician may find a tumor during a routine X-ray. Treatments for thymoma depend on the severity of your condition and your physician's recommendations.
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Instructions
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Have your physician examine a biopsy sample. Get examined by your physician to classify the severity of your thymoma before pursuing treatment options. A biopsy will need to be taken to examine the tissue sample under a microscope.
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Undergo chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can help shrink a tumor prior to surgery, according to the Fox Chase Cancer Center.
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Undergo radiation as another form of treatment if tumors are minimal in size. Radiation can also be used in conjunction with surgery.
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Undergo surgery if necessary. Receive surgery if your physician suggests this procedure. You may need all or part of a tumor removed. Surrounding lymph nodes and affected tissue may be taken out as well.
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Tips & Warnings
Immediately see a physician when you develop a persistent cough, chest pain or wheezing.
If you develop symptoms, get examined. Receive chest X-rays, a CT scan or MRI.
Ask your physician if you can become part of a clinical trial as part of a treatment option.
Clinical trials may also be an option when other treatments fail or if you wish to find a follow-up treatment to prevent cancer from returning.
Don't wait to seek treatment. Survival is dependent on your treatment.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit chest x-ray, lateral image by Allen Penton from Fotolia.com microscope image by Fotocie from Fotolia.com surgery image by Andrey Rakhmatullin from Fotolia.com
