Chest Wall Tumor Treatment
Tumors are abnormal growths of tissue that can occur anywhere in the body. While tumors are usually associated with cancer (malignant), some are non-cancerous (benign). Therefore it is extremely important for your doctor to identify if it is cancerous or not to determine the best way to treat your condition.
The chest cavity—which houses the lungs, heart, and other vital body parts—is a bone-and-muscle cage framed by the sternum (breastplate), spine, and ribs. Like any other part of the body, the walls of the chest cavity are susceptible to tumors.
Malignant chest wall tumors are classified as primary or secondary (metastatic). Primary tumors originate in the bone or muscle of the chest wall. Secondary tumors originate elsewhere in the body and spread (metastasize) to the chest wall. Virtually all secondary tumors are malignant. Most chest wall tumors found in children are primary, while most found in adults are secondary. All of these tumors tend to be a lump on the chest wall surface or a growth that invades the bone or muscle.
Causes of Chest Wall Tumors
While hereditary factors, diet and lifestyle choices may play a role in certain tumor types, there are no clear causes of tumors affecting the bones and muscles of the chest wall.
Symptoms of Chest Wall Tumors
Symptoms of chest wall tumors may include one or more of the following:
- Lump or bump protruding from the chest
- Pain around the chest area
- Swelling around the chest area
- Difficulty moving part of the chest
Diagnosis of Chest Wall Tumors
Screenings are typically performed through a routine check-up even if no symptoms are present. Your doctor will also schedule a screening, if you are showing any symptoms. Typically, based on your doctor’s assessment, you will have or more of the following:
Diagnostic tests and procedures
- X-rays
- Computed tomography (CT scan)
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Tissue biopsy
Treatment for Chest Wall Tumors
There are many different approaches to treating chest tumors. The right option for you depends on where the tumor formed and what caused it. Some treatment options include:
Medical and Surgical procedures
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Ablation therapy
To contact one of New Jersey’s best lung and thoracic cancer specialists call
844-CANCERNJ or
844-226-2376.