Extrathoracic recurrence of type A thymoma.

INTRODUCTION

Neoplasms of the thymus gland are the most common tumors in the anterior mediastinum, and differentiation between benign and malignant forms is rather difficult. Extrathoracic invasions or metastases are extremely rare, and only a few cases have been reported previously.

CASE PRESENTATION: We report herein the case of a patient in whom a thymoma type A recurred at skeletal muscle 2-years after surgery. The metastases were completely resected. Adjuvant treatment was started. Actually, no signs of recurrence were seen.

CONCLUSION

Our case shows that also thymoma type A, generally defined as a low malignancy, may recur. Thus, a strict follow-up is required. If metastases are present, surgical resection with curative intent associated with adjuvant therapy should be attended.