Lauren classification
Pronunciation: LAW-ren klas-ih-fih-KAY-shun
A histological classification system for gastric adenocarcinoma distinguishing intestinal, diffuse, and mixed types.
Full Definition
The Lauren classification is a widely used histopathological system for categorizing gastric adenocarcinoma into distinct morphological patterns with different biological behaviors. The intestinal type shows glandular structures with cohesive growth pattern and is often associated with Helicobacter pylori infection and intestinal metaplasia. The diffuse type consists of poorly cohesive cells infiltrating individually or in small clusters, including signet ring cells, and typically has a worse prognosis. Mixed type contains both patterns. This classification has important prognostic and therapeutic implications, with intestinal-type tumors generally showing better response to chemotherapy and overall survival compared to diffuse-type tumors.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize 'Lauren' as an eponym. Use hyphenated descriptors (intestinal-type, diffuse-type).
In Context
- "Histopathological analysis revealed intestinal-type adenocarcinoma according to Lauren classification." — Pathology report
- "The diffuse-type gastric cancer per Lauren classification showed extensive signet ring cell features." — Tumor board presentation