THYMIC CARCINOMA CENTER
What is a Thymus
The thymus is a small organ, located in the part of the chest, between the lungs, called the mediastinum, the area of the chest which also contains the heart, part of the aorta, the esophagus, part of the trachea and many lymph nodes. The thymus organ sits just above the heart and behind the breast bone in the front part of the chest.
The thymus consists of two lobes, the surface of these lobes are covered in many small bumps called lobules. There are 3 main layers or zones to the thymus. A thin outer layer called the capsule, a middle layer called the cortex and at the center is the core or inner layer called the medulla.
Playing a central role in the function of the body’s immune system, the thymus helps the body fight infections and has the ability to eliminate cancer cells. This small organ is relatively large and more active in infants and children. After puberty it begins to decrease in size so that in older adults it is quite small.
The thymus’ main function is the processing and maturation of special lymphocytes called T-lymphocytes or T-cells. In the thymus, the lymphocytes do not respond to pathogens and foreign agents. After the lymphocytes have matured they then enter the bloodstream and go to other lymphatic organs where they can help provide defense against disease. The thymus also produces a hormone, thymosin, which stimulates the maturation of lymphocytes in other lymphatic organs. As people age or become ill, the thymus becomes less effective at converting these lymphocytes.
About Thymic Carcinoma
Finding reliable information about thymic carcinoma is challenging. Finding others diagnosed with the disease can be even more difficult. This website helps you access up-to-date information about treatment options and resources on your journey. It’s also a safe and supportive space to connect with others who can relate and share experiences.
The organization and website are managed by a diverse team, that includes patients and caregivers with lived experience.
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Contribute to advancing research efforts aimed at improving treatments and outcomes for Thymic Carcinoma patients.
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Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by Thymic Carcinoma by providing HOPE!!
Testing Methods
Thymoma and Thymic Carcinoma are usually diagnosed, staged, and treated during surgery.
A biopsy of the tumor is done to diagnose the disease. The biopsy may be done before or during surgery (a mediastinoscopy or mediastinotomy), using a thin needle to remove a sample of cells. This is called a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy. Sometimes a wide needle is used to remove a sample of cells and this is called a core biopsy. A pathologist will view the sample under a microscope to check for cancer. If Thymoma or Thymic Carcinoma is diagnosed, the pathologist will determine the type of cancer cell in the tumor. There may be more than one type of cancer cell in a Thymoma. The surgeon will decide if all or part of the tumor can be removed by surgery. In some cases, lymph nodes and other tissues may be removed as well.
Additional tests that examine the thymus are used to detect thymomas or thymic carcinomas
Physical exam and history: An exam of the body to check general signs of health, including checking for signs of disease, such as lumps or anything else that seems unusual. A history of the patient’s health habits and past illnesses and treatments will also be taken.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): A procedure that uses a magnet, radio waves, and a computer to make a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body, such as the chest. This procedure is also called nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI).
CT scan (CAT scan): A procedure that makes a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body, such as the chest, taken from different angles. The pictures are made by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. A dye, often called “contrast”, may be injected into a vein or swallowed to help the organs or tissues show up more clearly. This procedure is also called computed tomography, computerized tomography, or computerized axial tomography.
PET scan (positron emission tomography scan): A procedure to find malignant tumor cells in the body. A small amount of radioactive glucose (sugar) is injected into a vein. The PET scanner rotates around the body and makes a picture of where glucose is being used in the body. Malignant tumor cells show up brighter in the picture because they are more active and take up more glucose than normal cells do.
Chest x-ray: An x-ray of the organs and bones inside the chest. An x-ray is a type of energy beam that can go through the body and onto film, making a picture of areas inside the body.
Oncologist with TC Experience
Dr. Arun Rajan, MD.
Center for Cancer Research
National Cancer Institute
10-CRC, Room 4-5330
Bethesda, MD 20892
tel: 240-760-6236
email: [email protected]
Dr. Aaron Mansfield, MD.
Doctor of Medical Oncology – Mayo Clinic, specialty in Thoracic Oncology
200 First Street Southwest
Rochester, MN 55905
Email: [email protected]
Tel: (507) 538-3270
Dr. Kavitha Ramchandran, MD.
Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine in the Division of Oncology. Serves as the Medical Director of Cancer Care Services for the Stanford Cancer Center and the inaugural Chief of Mentoring and Career Development for the Division of Oncology.
Thoracic Cancer Program in Palo Alto
875 Blake Wilbur Drive
Palo Alto , CA 94304
Tel: (650) 498-6000
Dr. Sukhmani Padda, MD.
Vice Chair of Medical Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center at Temple University Hospital.
Professor/Clinical Investigator Track/ Thoracic and Phase I Oncology
3401 N. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19140
Phone: 888-369-2427
Dr. Patrick Loehrer, MD.
Director of the Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, an IU Distinguished Professor, H.H. Gregg Professor of Oncology and associate dean for cancer research at the Indiana University School of Medicine.
Indiana Cancer Pavilion, Room 455
535 Barnhill Dr. , Indianapolis , IN 46202-5289
Email: [email protected]
Tel: (317) 948-1186
Dr. Janakiraman Subramanian , MD., MPH
Co-Director of Thoracic Oncology – Inova Schar Cancer Institute
8081 Innovation Park Dr, Fairfax, VA 22031
Tel: +1 (571) 472 -1037
Fax: (571) 472 – 0241
Administrative Coordinator: Justina Baiden-amissah
Email: [email protected]
Dr. Christopher Nabel, MD, PH. D
Medical Oncologist
Assistant in Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital
Instructor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School
Massachusetts General Hospital:
55 Fruit Street
Boston, MA 02114
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +1 (617) 643 – 6361
Causes/Risks/Prevention:
Thymoma and Thymic Carcinoma are usually diagnosed, staged, and treated during surgery.
Thymic Carcinoma is a rare cancer that develops in the cells of the thymus gland, located in the chest behind the breastbone. While the exact cause is often unknown, several factors may increase the risk of developing Thymic Carcinoma:
Causes:
Genetic Mutations: Changes in certain genes may play a role in the development of Thymic Carcinoma.
Previous Radiation Exposure: Radiation therapy to the chest area for other medical conditions may increase the risk.
Autoimmune Diseases: Some autoimmune disorders, such as myasthenia gravis, are associated with an increased risk.
Risks:
- Age: Thymic Carcinoma is more common in adults aged 40-60 years.
- Gender: It affects men slightly more often than women.
- Smoking: Smoking may increase the risk of developing Thymic Carcinoma.
Prevention Tips:
While it may not be possible to prevent Thymic Carcinoma entirely, there are steps individuals can take to reduce their risk:
Avoid Smoking: If you smoke, quitting can lower your risk of developing Thymic Carcinoma and other cancers.
Manage Autoimmune Disorders: Effective management of autoimmune diseases, such as myasthenia gravis, may help reduce the risk.
Regular Health Check-ups: Routine medical check-ups can help detect any potential health issues early.
Understanding the causes, risks, and preventive measures for Thymic Carcinoma is crucial for early detection and better outcomes. If you have concerns or questions about your risk factors, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
What is Metastasis
How Metastasis Occurs:
- Lymphatic Spread: Thymic carcinoma can spread through the lymphatic system, which includes lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels.
- Hematogenous Spread: Cancer cells may also enter the bloodstream (hematogenous spread) and travel to distant organs, forming secondary tumors.
Impact of Metastasis:
- Challenges in Treatment: Metastatic thymic carcinoma can complicate treatment and may require a more comprehensive approach, potentially including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.
- Prognostic Significance: The presence and extent of metastasis are crucial factors in determining the prognosis (expected outcome) and guiding treatment decisions.
Monitoring and Management:
- Regular Monitoring: After initial treatment, regular follow-up appointments and imaging scans are important to monitor for any signs of recurrence or metastasis.
- Individualized Care: Treatment plans for metastatic thymic carcinoma are highly individualized, taking into account factors such as the location and extent of metastasis, overall health, and personal preferences.
For personalized guidance and support tailored to your specific situation, consult with your healthcare team who can provide detailed information and assistance throughout your treatment journey.
Treatment Principals
Treating thymic carcinoma involves a comprehensive approach designed to address the unique characteristics of this rare cancer. The following principles guide the management of thymic carcinoma:
Multidisciplinary Team:
Treatment is coordinated among oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists to develop a personalized plan.
Surgery:
Surgical removal of the tumor is often the first-line treatment for localized cases.
Radiation Therapy:
Used before or after surgery to target cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Chemotherapy:
Effective for advanced or metastatic thymic carcinoma, targeting cancer cells throughout the body.
Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy:
Offered in certain cases to specifically target cancer cells or boost the immune response.
Clinical Trials:
Opportunities to access new treatments through research studies.
Supportive Care:
Focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life..
Personalized Approach:
Treatment plans are tailored based on individual factors like cancer stage and patient preferences
Consult with your healthcare team for personalized guidance and to explore the best treatment options for your specific situation.
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