Center for Thoracic Oncology

Diseases & Conditions

Chest Wall Tumor

The mission of our expert team at Boston Medical Centers’ Center for Thoracic Oncology is to provide every patient we see with exceptional care, without exception. Among the best in the country, we maintain the highest level of quality care and service for you and your family.

What is a Chest Wall Tumor?

Sometimes tumors arise on the chest wall, which covers the chest cavity. The chest cavity is a cage of bone and muscle that holds the lungs, heart, and other vital organs. Like all tumors, chest wall tumors may be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous), and may originate there or have spread from elsewhere. Only about five percent of chest wall tumors are found to be cancerous. Either type of tumor may interfere with the body's functioning.

What are the Symptoms of a Chest Wall Tumor?

Symptoms of cancerous chest wall tumors may include:

• Pain or soreness in the chest area
• Swelling
• Impaired movement
• A lump or bump protruding from the chest

Benign chest wall tumors may cause:

• A lump or bump protruding from the chest
• Pain
• Muscle atrophy

What Causes Chest Wall Tumors?

Although dietary and lifestyle choices as well as family history are thought to play a role in cancer development, it remains unclear what causes chest wall tumors.

How are chest wall tumors diagnosed?
Learn how chest wall tumors may be treated

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