What Are the Treatments for Thymus Gland Cancer?

Thymus cancer is characterized by unrestrained proliferation of cells lining the thymus gland. As per the American Cancer Society, thymus gland cancers are very rare accounting for approximately one percent of all cancers. However the exact number of patients diagnosed with it annually in the US in not known.

Treatment Options

• As with other cancers, no treatment will completely cure thymus gland cancer. Nevertheless, treatment methods like surgical removal of the cancer cells, radiation therapy and chemotherapy are used to control the spreading of the cancerous cells.

Time Frame

• According to the American Cancer Society, the time-frame for chemotherapy and radiation therapy may vary depending on the stage of the cancer. However, generally chemotherapy sessions are held once a week for three to four weeks. Radiation sessions are often five times a week for five to six weeks.

FIve-Year Survival Rates

• According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for thymus cancer varies depending on the stage of the cancer. The five-year survival rates vary from 90 percent for stage I, 85 to 95 percent for stage II, 70 to 80 percent for stage III and 40 to 60 percent for stage IV thymus cancer.

Complications

• Pain in the abdomen and bleeding are common complications of surgery. Loss of hair, skin irritations, fatigue and tiredness are common side effects of radiation therapy and chemotherapy when used to treat thymus gland cancer.

Warnings

• You may be advised by your doctor to diminish exposure to sun rays and environmental pollutants while undergoing radiation therapy sessions.