Recurrent thymic carcinoid tumor in the pleural cavity

Thymic carcinoid is a rare malignant tumor having a high incidence of local recurrence and distant metastasis. To date, few reports have described the reoperative management of recurrent thymic carcinoid appearing as a pleural tumor. Here we report 2 such cases in long-term survivors. Long-term follow-up is recommended for patients with thymic carcinoid even after curative surgery. Aggressive treatment including surgical resection may prolong survival in these patients.