Trusted Cancer Treatment and Minimally Invasive Surgery for Thymoma 

Our expert thoracic surgeons and oncologists treat all stages of thymoma and thymic carcinoma. Thymoma occurs when cancer cells start to grow in a small gland behind your breastbone called your thymus, which makes white blood cells that prevent infections. Thymoma and thymic carcinoma can also sometimes be referred to as thymic epithelial tumors (TETs). At Keck Medicine of USC, our world-renowned surgeons are experts in treating these rare forms of cancer. From diagnosis and staging, to performing minimally invasive thymectomies, we help you get the care you need to feel better. 

Symptoms of Thymoma and Thymic Carcinoma 

Thymic carcinoma grows faster than thymoma and is more likely to spread to other parts of your body through a process called metastasizing. Thymoma grows slower and usually stays in your thymus. But the symptoms are similar in both conditions. Symptoms of both thymoma and thymic carcinoma include:  

• Breathing issues 
• Chest pain 
• Feeling of pressure in your chest that doesn’t go away 
• Shortness of breath 
• Trouble swallowing 

More serious symptoms can occur if the tumor becomes very large and puts pressure on the veins carrying blood to your heart.  

Treatments We Offer for Thymoma and Thymic Carcinoma 

We offer a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique medical situation and needs. Your care team includes thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists and radiologists, who all work together to deliver the best care possible. Treatments we offer for thymoma and thymic carcinoma include:  

• Advanced surgery, including thymectomy: Our experts use robotic and minimally invasive techniques to remove tumors, promoting faster recovery and less postoperative pain. 
• Targeted therapies: We specialize in the latest targeted therapies, including immunotherapy, leveraging the immune system in cancer treatment. 
• Next-level diagnostics and imaging: Our comprehensive tumor pathology analysis enables us to accurately identify your tumor subtype in order to create the best treatment plan for you. 
• Customized chemotherapy: Plans are tailored to your tumor type and disease stage. 
• Precision radiation therapy: Our experts use pinpoint accuracy to treat tumors while protecting healthy tissue.