In 2023, Linh, a 58-year-old woman from Ho Chi Minh City, began experiencing persistent chest pain that she believed was due to heart disease. However, after visiting the doctor, it was discovered that she had a malignant thymus tumor. Initially, Linh had a dull pain in the left chest area and a dry cough.
Despite taking medication for chronic bronchitis, her symptoms did not improve. Following Tet, she continued to experience coughing and increased chest pain, prompting her to seek further evaluation at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City. On April 27th, Dr. Tran Quoc Hoai from the Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery at the Cardiovascular Center identified a large thymic tumor as the cause of her symptoms.
Due to its invasive nature, the medical team decided to perform open surgery to remove it safely. The procedure was successful and Ms. Linh was discharged from the hospital after five days of treatment. Pathology results confirmed that the tumor was malignant and she received chemotherapy to prevent cancer cells from spreading.
Thymic carcinoma is an uncommon form of cancer that originates from thymic epithelial cells in the mediastinum – an important part of the immune system located between the lungs and heart. While thymoma is more common than thymic carcinoma and can cause similar symptoms such as persistent coughing and difficulty breathing, early detection and treatment can lead to better outcomes for patients with this rare type of cancer.
Linh’s story highlights the importance of seeking medical attention when experiencing persistent chest pain or other unusual symptoms, even if they seem minor or unrelated at first glance.
In conclusion, Linh’s experience with thymic carcinoma serves as a reminder that even rare forms of cancer can be life-altering without proper diagnosis and treatment. It is crucial for individuals experiencing any unusual symptoms or concerns about their health to seek professional medical advice promptly to ensure timely intervention when necessary.