Definition

Stage III is divided into stages IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC. In stage IIIA, cancer has spread to branches on one side of the hepatic artery or of the portal vein. In stage IIIB, cancer has spread to one or more of the following: (1) the main part of the portal vein or its branches on both sides; (2) the common hepatic artery; (3) the right hepatic duct and the left branch of the hepatic artery or of the portal vein; and/or (4) the left hepatic duct and the right branch of the hepatic artery or of the portal vein. In stage IIIC, cancer has spread to 1 to 3 nearby lymph nodes.