Related Conditions

Lung cancer starts when abnormal cells grow out of control in the lung. These cells can invade nearby tissue and form tumors. Lung cancer can start anywhere in the lungs and affect any part of the respiratory system.

Different types of masses, both benign (non-spreading or invading) and cancerous (able to spread or invade), develop in the mediastinum. Because of their location in this critical area, even benign masses can cause serious issues. The type of problem a tumor or mass may cause depends on its specific location within the mediastinum.