[Thymic carcinoid tumors. A clinico-anatomic study of 3 cases]

The carcinoid tumour of the thymus was first detailed by Rosai in 1972. The authors describe three cases of this tumour with particular reference to their histogenesis. It appears to be a tumour predominantly affecting males with an often unfavourable, though slow, progression. Some pathological associations are frequent and characteristic. In one third of cases there is an associated endocrine neoplasia. As a rule the tumour is sited in the anterior mediastinum. The precise diagnosis rests on histochemical criteria (specific granulations). These carcinoids are tumours of the APUD system of endodermal origin. The treatment is surgical.