FIGO staging
Pronunciation: FEE-go
Also written as: FIGO — International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics
International standardized system for classifying the extent and spread of gynecologic cancers.
Full Definition
FIGO staging (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) is the globally accepted classification system for determining the anatomic extent of gynecologic malignancies. The staging system provides standardized criteria for ovarian, cervical, endometrial, vulvar, and vaginal cancers, incorporating factors such as tumor size, local extension, lymph node involvement, and distant metastases. FIGO staging is essential for treatment planning, prognosis determination, and research standardization. The staging criteria are periodically updated based on new evidence and improved understanding of cancer biology and outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: FIGO is always capitalized; staging follows Roman numerals (I-IV) with letter subdivisions.
In Context
- "Final pathology confirmed FIGO stage IIIC ovarian carcinoma based on positive pelvic lymph nodes." — Pathology report
- "The tumor was upstaged to FIGO stage IV due to distant hepatic metastases identified on imaging." — Staging assessment