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In the Industry Vocabulary Test
TNM staging
Pronunciation: T-N-M
Also written as: TNM — Tumor, Node, Metastasis
The internationally standardized system for describing the extent of cancer spread using tumor size, lymph nodes, and metastases.
Full Definition
TNM staging classifies cancer based on three components: T (primary tumor characteristics), N (regional lymph node involvement), and M (presence of distant metastases). The 8th edition, implemented in 2017, includes significant changes for lung cancer staging, particularly T descriptors and M categories. Accurate staging is crucial for treatment planning, prognosis determination, and clinical trial enrollment.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize TNM. Specify edition number (8th) when relevant for accuracy.
In Context
- "TNM staging revealed T2aN0M0 disease, corresponding to stage IB." — Staging summary
- "The new TNM 8th edition reclassifies this tumor as T3 rather than T4." — Staging conference
Also known as
AJCC staging
cancer staging
Don't confuse with
clinical staging
pathological staging