Thymoma and Thymic Carcinoma: Risk Factors

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 09/2022

ON THIS PAGE: You will find out that more research is needed to learn more about the factors that increase the chance of developing thymoma and thymic carcinoma. Use the menu to see other pages.

A risk factor is anything that increases a person’s chance of developing cancer. Although risk factors often influence the development of cancer, most do not directly cause cancer. Some people with several risk factors never develop cancer, while others with no known risk factors do. Knowing your risk factors and talking about them with your doctor may help you make more informed lifestyle and health care choices.

Currently, there are no known risk factors for thymoma or thymic carcinoma. If you are concerned about your risk of this type of cancer, be sure to talk with your doctor.

The next section in this guide is Symptoms and Signs. It explains what changes or medical problems thymoma and thymic carcinoma can cause. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.