INTRODUCTION
Thymoma, a rare mediastinal tumor, often requires differential diagnosis
from other mediastinal masses, necessitating a multidimensional approach
combining various imaging modalities and histopathologic
analysis.1 Accurate correlation of these features is
pivotal for drawing definitive diagnostic, prognostic, and disease
staging conclusions. Moreover, the presence of local invasion
complicates complete mass resection, underlining the necessity for a
multidisciplinary approach in such scenarios.2,3
In this case report, we detail the evaluation of a 69-year-old female
presenting with recurrent left chest wall pain, subacute decline in
functional status, and exertional dyspnea. Imaging disclosed a sizable
anterior mediastinal mass encroaching into the pericardium and right
pleural space, accompanied by loculated pericardial effusion, which was
later confirmed as thymoma upon histopathological examination. This case
underscores the potential complexities encountered in the diagnostic
journey of thymoma, while also emphasizing the importance of an
integrated approach and the challenges imposed by local invasion.