What is a Diaphragm Tumor?
The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle located between the abdomen and the chest cavity (thorax). It allows air to flow in and out of the lungs by decreasing pressure in the lungs and helping the rib cage expand when one inhales. Tumors can develop in the diaphragm, which can be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous). These tumors may originate in the diaphragm or spread from elsewhere.
Symptoms of a Diaphragm Tumor
Symptoms vary based on the type of disorder, but may include:
- Discomfort or difficulty with breathing
- Pain in the chest, shoulder, or abdominal area
- Hypoxemia, or a deficiency of oxygen in the blood
- Decreased breath sounds
- Paralysis, in rare cases
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