Professional
Technical
IVT
depth of invasion
Measurement of how deeply tumor extends into underlying tissue from the surface.
Full Definition
Depth of invasion represents the perpendicular distance from the basement membrane or surface to the deepest point of tumor invasion, measured in millimeters. This parameter is particularly important in oral cavity cancers where it influences T-staging, nodal metastasis risk, and treatment planning decisions. Depths greater than 4-5mm typically indicate higher risk for occult nodal disease and may prompt elective neck dissection. The measurement requires careful pathologic assessment and has prognostic significance independent of tumor size.
Usage
Usage note: Critical measurement for T-staging of oral cavity cancers; express in millimeters.
In Context
- "The oral tongue carcinoma showed a depth of invasion of 8mm, indicating high risk for nodal metastasis." — pathology report
- "Depth of invasion greater than 4mm warrants consideration of elective neck dissection." — treatment guideline
Also known as
invasion depth
tumor thickness
Contrasted with
superficial invasion
Don't confuse with
tumor diameter
greatest dimension