Final answer:
The thymus is where T lymphocytes mature, and tumors arising from here are classified as either thymomas, which are less aggressive, or thymic carcinomas, which are more aggressive and likely to metastasize.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types of Thymic Tumors
The thymus is a primary lymphoid organ where T lymphocytes proliferate and mature. The process of maturation occurs within the thymus and involves thymocytes which are immature T cells. After maturation, these thymocytes, now mature T cells, exit the thymus and migrate to secondary lymphoid organs. Tumors that can develop in the thymus are classified as either thymomas or thymic carcinomas. Thymomas are usually encapsulated and less aggressive, whereas thymic carcinomas are more aggressive and more likely to spread to other areas of the body.