Thymic carcinoma: review and update

Abstract

Thymic carcinoma (TC) is a rare thymic epithelial neoplasm with an aggressive clinical course. There are many recognized histologic subtypes as described by the fifth edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) Classification of Thoracic Tumors; however, given the rarity of this tumor group, diagnosis remains a challenge, especially on limited tissue samples. Additionally, rare variants of TC are continuing to be established, particularly in the era of molecular diagnostics. Herein, histologic subtypes are described as the rare subtypes of TC in the context of their immunoprofile, cytogenetic or molecular features, clinical presentation, and ensuing challenges.