Overview
The thymus is a small organ in the chest producing white blood cells. Tumors here (thymomas) are rare and often linked to autoimmune diseases like myasthenia gravis.
Symptoms
- Persistent cough
- Chest pain
- Breathing difficulty
- Muscle weakness
- Drooping eyelids
- Double vision
Treatments
Specialized management:
Thymectomy
Surgery to remove thymus.
Chemotherapy
If surgery isn't an option.
Sources and medical information
Prepared by Tutti Cancer Warriors
Sources checked: 29 July 2026
This page provides general educational information and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Thymoma and thymic carcinoma begin in the thymus but behave differently. Seek medical advice for persistent cough, chest pain, breathing difficulty or swelling of the face and upper body. Thymoma can be associated with autoimmune conditions, especially myasthenia gravis.
Official sources
Key Facts
RareThymoma and thymic carcinoma are uncommon tumours of the thymus
2The two main malignant groups are thymoma and thymic carcinoma