Etheridge shelved concert dates so she could fight her illness

The 43-year-old said on her website that a tumour and some lymph nodes were removed in surgery, and she will now undergo a course of chemotherapy.

But the singer said work on a greatest hits album and developing a television sitcom would continue.

Etheridge will star as a lesbian single mother with a straight flatmate in the forthcoming ABC network show.

In September 2003, Etheridge held a commitment ceremony with actress Tammy Lynn Michaels.

Etheridge, who lives in Los Angeles, shares custody of a daughter and son with former partner Julie Cypher.

'Excellent' prognosis

Cypher had the children through artificial insemination, using a sperm donation from rock star David Crosby.

Best known for her folk-rock style and raspy vocals, Etheridge released her most recent album, Lucky, in February.

Earlier this month, Etheridge announced that the remaining 11 dates of her US tour would be shelved so she could concentrate on fighting her illness.