Ectopic cystic thymoma associated with Raynaud's phenomenon

Ann Thorac Cardiovasc Surg. 2007 Apr;13(2):118-21.

Abstract

Mediastinal cystic tumors are well-marginated round lesions that comprise 12% to 18% of all mediastinal masses. These lesions include a variety of diseases with overlapping radiologic appearances and variable prognoses. Pathological examinations are almost always required for differential diagnosis. We encountered a case of anterior mediastinal tumor discovered in the process of investigation of Raynaud's phenomenon. Taking into account the tumor location, a pericardial cyst was initially suspected. However, the tumor was surgically resected and histopathological examinations demonstrated thymus-like tissue in the cyst walls. Raynaud's phenomenon greatly improved after surgery. These findings suggested that cystic thymoma originated from ectopic thymic tissue and is accompanied by paraneoplastic syndrome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Raynaud Disease / complications*
  • Thymoma / complications*
  • Thymoma / diagnostic imaging
  • Thymoma / pathology
  • Thymus Neoplasms / complications*
  • Thymus Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Thymus Neoplasms / pathology
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed