TNM

TNM is UICC's system to maintain consensus on one globally recognised standard for categorising cancer.

• T (1-4): size of the tumor
• N (0-3): spreading into lymphatic nodes
• M (0/1): spreading into other organs (metastasis)

There are other criteria which can also be taken into account:

• G (1-4): the Grading (evilness) of the cancer cells
• R (0/1): the completeness of the operation (resection-boundaries free of cancer cells or not)
• p: if the categorisation of the following parameter was achieved by histology (examination by a pathologist) or only clinical examination.
• C (1-4): the certainty (quality) of the last mentioned parameter.

For the T, N and M parameters exist subclassifications for some cancer-types (e.g. T1a, Tis, N1i).

Some examples:

Small, benign cancer, no metastasis, no spreading to lymphatic nodes, cancer completely removed, resection material seen by pathologist:

- pT1C4 pN0C4 M0 R0C4 G1

Big, evil cancer, spreading to lymphatic nodes and other organs, not completely removed, seen by pathologist:

- pT4C4 pN2C4 M1 R1 G3

Some of the aims for adopting a prognosis.

• Assist in the evaluation of the results of treatment.

• Enable facilities around the world to collate information more productively.

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