Stage IIIA and IIIB Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

The illustration shows a stage IIIA tumour which has spread to the lymph node in the chest cavity between the lung lobes (mediastinum). At this stage, tumour expansion in one lung lobe is extensive, but is however, confined to the chest. Metastases in other organs, e.g. bones or brain do not occur in this Grade. Typical, however, is the infestation of mediastinal lymph nodes as shown in the picture, OR the penetration of the tumour in the chest wall OR an intrusion in the main bronchi, within 2 cm of the bifurcation into both main bronchi.

In stage IIIB, the tumour is more extended and is growing into the mediastinum or in the lymph nodes on the other side of the chest.