Thymic hemangioma presenting with recurrent pleural effusion

Thymic hemangiomas are rare mediastinal tumors. In all reported cases, the diagnosis was only established after resection. Our case presented with recurrent pleural effusions mimicking advanced malignancy. Despite careful evaluation and biopsies, the diagnosis was only established after resection. We have undertaken a literature review of such unusual tumors and emphasize the importance of surgical exploration in any patient in whom a tumor lacks histological confirmation. (Ann Thorac Surg 2000;70:297-9 (C) 2000 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.