FIGO staging
Pronunciation: FEE-go
Also written as: FIGO — International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics
The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics staging system for gynecologic malignancies.
Full Definition
FIGO staging is the internationally accepted classification system developed by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics for staging gynecologic cancers, including cervical, endometrial, ovarian, vulvar, and vaginal cancers. The system uses Roman numerals (I-IV) with subdivisions (A, B, C) to describe the extent of disease spread. FIGO staging is based primarily on clinical examination, imaging findings, and surgical exploration rather than pathologic findings alone. Regular updates to FIGO criteria reflect advances in imaging technology and surgical techniques. This staging system is essential for treatment planning, prognosis determination, and clinical trial enrollment in gynecologic oncology.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize FIGO. Specify the year of staging criteria when relevant, as updates occur periodically.
In Context
- "The ovarian cancer was classified as FIGO stage IIIC based on peritoneal implants and retroperitoneal lymph node involvement." — Oncology consultation note
- "FIGO staging revision in 2018 incorporated molecular features for endometrial cancer classification." — Clinical practice guideline