Symptoms Of Thymoma

Swelling

When tumors due to thymoma begin to affect the major blood vessel, called the superior vena cava, located between the heart and the head, individuals may develop a condition known as superior vena cava syndrome. While superior vena cava syndrome is one of the rarer conditions that develop due to thymoma, it is still possible. In any case, one of the hallmark symptoms of thymoma, when it progresses to this point, is swelling in the face, upper chest, and neck. This kind of swelling can also turn into a bluish color. Individuals who present with swelling as a symptom, in addition to swelling in the neck, face, and upper chest, may also find the visible veins in this part of the body also begin to swell.

Anemia

As is clear at this point, tumors in thymoma often cause additional conditions and thus, symptoms that indicate them. One of these associated conditions and symptoms is anemia, which occurs when the patient’s red blood cell count is lower than normal. In severe instances, the anemia can progress to the point of red cell aplasia. Thankfully, anemia is not an incredibly common symptom of thymoma. Anemia, both due to thymoma and other causes, also presents with dizziness and lightheadedness in patients. Thus, individuals should be on the lookout for these symptoms as well, and if they also have some of the other symptoms discussed, should definitely test for thymoma if they do indeed have anemia.