Thymoma: Update for the new millenium

Scott B. Johnson, Tony Y. Eng, Giuseppe Giaccone, Charles R. Thomas

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

78 Scopus citations

Abstract

Thymomas are relatively common tumors of the anterior superior mediastinum. They are usually relatively slowly growing tumors and their prognosis depends on the macroscopic and microscopic invasion of surrounding tissues. Surgery is the mainstay treatment of thymomas, and complete resection represents one of the most important prognostic factors in this disease. Other important prognostic indicators include the tumor stage and size and the presence of symptoms. Postoperative radiotherapy is indicated in tumors with invasion of surrounding tissues, even if resection was radical, since it improves local control and survival. Cytotoxic chemotherapy has been employed in several relatively small phase II studies and in advanced disease has been demonstrated to produce a 50%-80% objective response rate. Neoadjuvant cytotoxic chemotherapy and/or external beam radiotherapy has been used with some success in patients with tumors which are not readily resectable. Novel antiproliferative systemic agents, with both cytotoxic and cytostatic mechanisms of action, are being tested in ongoing prospective clinical trials.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)239-246
Number of pages8
JournalOncologist
Volume6
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 2001
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Myasthenia gravis
  • Thymoma
  • Tumor stage

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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