Thymus Cancer - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which doctor should I consult for thymus cancer?

A: You should consult an oncologist.

Q: What are the chances of survival in thymus cancer?

A: The survival rates vary between 30% and 50%.

Q: Is thymus cancer curable?

A: Thymus cancer is curable if detected early. In advanced stages, thymus cancer cannot be cured.

Q: Can a thymoma be benign?

A: Yes. Thymomas are tumors which can be benign. However, some of these can become cancerous and give rise to thymic carcinoma.

Q: Why is it that the thymus is smaller in adults?

A: In adulthood, the thymus has a lesser role to play as most of the T-cells are produced before adolescence and very few new T-cells are required afterwards. So the thymic tissue shrinks and is replaced by fatty tissue.