Tumors of The Chest Wall

Program Overview. At The Lacks Cancer Center at Saint Mary’s Health Care our cancer treatment programs are increasing hope everyday, thanks to a unique multidisciplinary model of care, which incorporates a staff of progressive physicians, and the most innovative technologies available. In addition to this model, we continually review and apply the latest anti-cancer drugs, the newest staging and imaging techniques—such as PET scan technology, and the most effective surgical procedures to ensure the best outcomes in the treatment of chest wall cancer.

Chest Wall Tumors Overview. Cancer originating in the chest wall (a bone-and-muscle cage framed by the sternum, spine, and ribs) is uncommon, but has a 50% to 80% rate of malignancy (being cancerous). The majority of benign (non-cancerous) tumors, however, present no symptoms and often remain undetected. Chest wall tumors typically form on the soft tissues of the chest wall and grow slowly, causing no initial symptoms in their early stages. While family history, diet and lifestyle choices such as a high fat diet and smoking are thought to cause certain tumors, there are no clear causes.

The most common primary malignant chest wall tumors:

• Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma
• Myosarcoma
• Chondrosarcoma

The most common primary benign chest wall tumors:

• Cartilaginous Tumors
• Desmoid Tumors
• Fibrous dysplasia

Become part of our Multidisciplinary Lung Clinic through a referral from your primary care physician or with a self-referral by calling 1-877-LACKS-MI or 616-752-LACK(S).