Symptomatic mediastinal thymic cysts.

The case of a symptomatic, hemorrhagic mediastinal thymic cyst associated with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is reported and the literature reviewed. Contrary to previous reports, mediastinal thymic cysts are frequently symptomatic (39%), presenting with complaints of tracheal and esophageal compression. The age distribution is the same in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. Complete excision remains the treatment of choice.