Chest Wall Tumors

The chest wall is the “cage” formed by the ribs and muscles that provide protection to the organs such as the lungs, heart, and esophagus. A tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue, this a chest wall tumor is an abnormal growth of cells of one of these elements. Chest wall tumors can be visible from the outside or not visible. They may be cancerous (malignant) or non cancerous (benign). These tumors can arise from bone tissue, muscle tissue, nerve tissue, or vascular tissue.

Are there risk factors for developing a chest wall tumor?

The cause of chest wall tumors is mostly unknown.

Do chest wall tumors produce symptoms?

Sometimes pain or swelling are associated with a chest wall tumor. Sometimes there are no symptoms.

How are chest wall tumors diagnosed?

The first step to diagnosis is an evaluation by your doctor including medical and family history, physical exam, and risk factor evaluation. A chest x-ray or a CT scan may be ordered to help visualize if there are any abnormalities with your chest wall.

Want to know more?
https://ctsurgerypatients.org/lung-esophageal-and-other-chest-diseases/chest-wall-tumors