What are three diseases or disorders that affect the thymus gland?

Three potential diseases or disorders of the thymus gland have been identified and briefly explained below:

SCID

SCID stands for severe combined immunodeficiency. SCID is caused by a mutation in the gene that regulates the development of healthy T cells in the thymus. As a result of this mutation, individuals that have SCID have a compromised immune system. Therefore, they are unable to fight off infections properly.

Myasthenia gravis

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder involving the thymus gland. The thymus gland of individuals with myasthenia gravis does not shrink after birth. Although myasthenia gravis is not completely understood, some speculate that the thymus gland of individuals with the disorder is overactive and attacks the acetylcholine neurotransmitter. The acetylcholine neurotransmitter is involved in proper muscular contractions. Therefore, myasthenia is associated with weakened muscles.

Thymus cancer

Thymomas and thymic carcinomas are two forms of cancers that affect the thymus. Individuals with thymus cancer may have an unceasing cough, trouble breathing, and/or chest pains.