Description of Specimen
A lobulated tumour some 12 x 7 cm. The cut surface shows yellowish tumour tissue in which there
are areas of haemorrhage and of cyst formation. The histology is that of a thymoma; the comment
has been made that a metastatic squamous cell carcinoma could not be excluded.
History
This man presented at the age of 59 with weight loss, tiredness and a normocytic anaemia
which required transfusion on two occasions. He had been a heavy smoker for many years. An
X-ray showed an anterior mediastinal mass which was removed. Investigation did not disclose any
obvious reason for the anaemia but it may be associated with this lesion.