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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Is A Cancerous Tumor Differentiated From A Non-cancerous One?

I was diagnosed with a thymoma or germ cell tumor last week. the size of tumor is 5.1x4.9cm. the mass was seen within the superior mediastimum abutting the superior vena cava and ascending oarta. My question is.... Is this a cancer type of tumor? thanks









Mon, 19 May 2014
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Oncologist 's  Response
To know exactly whether its thymoma or germ cell tumor, a biopsy and histopathological examination will be required.
In germ cell tumor, tumor markers including serum AFP, serum beta HCG and serum LDH are sometimes also raised and will aid in diagnosis.
Germ cell tumor is a cancer and thymoma has subtypes ranging from benign lesion to thymic carcinoma which is malignant. Biopsy will give the exact diagnosis.
I hope it helps. Please discuss with your doctor.
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How Is A Cancerous Tumor Differentiated From A Non-cancerous One?

To know exactly whether its thymoma or germ cell tumor, a biopsy and histopathological examination will be required. In germ cell tumor, tumor markers including serum AFP, serum beta HCG and serum LDH are sometimes also raised and will aid in diagnosis. Germ cell tumor is a cancer and thymoma has subtypes ranging from benign lesion to thymic carcinoma which is malignant. Biopsy will give the exact diagnosis. I hope it helps. Please discuss with your doctor.