Definition

Stage III is divided into stages IIIA and IIIB, depending on where the cancer has spread. In stage IIIA, cancer has spread (1) into the mucosa layer, thin muscle layer, or submucosa layer of the esophagus wall. Cancer is found in 3 to 6 lymph nodes near the tumor; or (2) into the thick muscle layer of the esophagus wall. Cancer is found in 1 or 2 lymph nodes near the tumor. In stage IIIB, cancer has spread (1) into the thick muscle layer or the connective tissue layer of the esophagus wall. Cancer is found in 1 to 6 lymph nodes near the tumor; or (2) into the diaphragm, pleura, sac around the heart, azygos vein, or peritoneum. Cancer may be found in 0 to 2 lymph nodes near the tumor.