Advanced
Technical
IVT
T-stage
The tumor size component of TNM staging system for breast cancer classification.
Full Definition
T-stage represents the tumor size and extent component within the TNM (Tumor, Node, Metastasis) staging system for breast cancer. T-stages range from Tis (carcinoma in situ) through T1-T4 based on tumor size and local extent. T1 tumors are ≤2 cm, T2 are >2-5 cm, T3 are >5 cm, and T4 involves chest wall or skin. T-stage is determined by the largest invasive tumor focus and excludes ductal carcinoma in situ from size measurements. This classification directly impacts staging, prognosis, and treatment recommendations.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate and use consistent TNM staging edition when documenting.
In Context
- "The 3.2 cm invasive tumor classified as T2 stage disease." — staging summary
- "T-stage determination required measurement of the dominant invasive focus only." — pathology methodology
Also known as
tumor stage
primary tumor classification
Don't confuse with
N-stage
M-stage
overall stage