Definition

Stage II is divided into stages II and IIE. In stage II, cancer is found in two or more lymph node groups either above or below the diaphragm (the thin muscle below the lungs that helps breathing and separates the chest from the abdomen). In stage IIE, cancer has spread from a group of lymph nodes to a nearby organ or area that is outside the lymph system. Cancer may have spread to other lymph node groups on the same side of the diaphragm.