TNM staging
Also written as: TNM — Tumor, Node, Metastasis
The most widely used cancer staging system that classifies tumors based on primary tumor size, lymph node involvement, and distant metastasis.
Full Definition
TNM staging is the international standard for cancer staging developed by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC). The system uses three key components: T (tumor size and extent), N (lymph node involvement), and M (presence of distant metastasis). Each component receives a numerical or letter designation, which combines to determine the overall stage (I-IV). TNM staging provides crucial information for treatment planning, prognosis assessment, and clinical research standardization.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize TNM; use specific staging notation (e.g., T2N1M0) when referencing individual cases.
In Context
- "The final pathology report confirmed TNM staging of T2N1M0, indicating stage IIA disease." — Pathology report
- "TNM staging guides treatment recommendations according to evidence-based protocols." — Clinical guideline